Eva Herzog emphasizes the importance of Switzerland’s relationship with the EU
Published: Monday, Dec 4th 2023, 17:40
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On Monday, SP politician Eva Herzog became the sixth woman and first woman from Basel to be elected President of the Council of States. In her inauguration speech, the 61-year-old focused on Switzerland's relationship with the EU and the appeal of democratic values.
"We live in the middle of Europe, surrounded by countries that have joined together to form the European Union. This is much more than an economic area, as we are now seeing once again. The EU is first and foremost a guarantor of our fundamental values and of peace, which is what we also stand for," Herzog told the members of the Council of States.
"Our relations with the EU are good, but we are already noticing that they are eroding," she continued. This is the case in areas such as research cooperation, energy supply, medicines and medical technology.
"This is a creeping crisis - and it is in our own best interests to put the relationship on a solid footing," said Herzog. She expressed relief that the Federal Council intends to adopt a negotiating mandate by the end of the year. However, compromises were needed to conclude the negotiations. At the end of the day, the solution found must be accepted.
Neutrality, democratic values and urban areas
Swiss neutrality should also be discussed. "It is not an immutable doctrine. It is an instrument that must be adapted to the times and circumstances," said Herzog.
The newly elected President of the Council of States also emphasized the centrality of democratic values. Democracy is under pressure because it does not provide quick solutions. "It is our values that are under pressure." It is institutions such as the Council of States that give Switzerland stability and security, especially in difficult times.
Herzog also emphasized her focus on cities and their agglomerations. Three quarters of the Swiss population live in urban areas. "I want to close the political urban-rural divide," said the SP President of the Council of States.
Herzog succeeds Brigitte Häberli-Koller, a member of the Council of States from the canton of Thurgau. In her farewell speech, she emphasized the special culture of debate in the small chamber, which manages "without spectacle", is "calm and respectful" and must be maintained. This culture of debate cannot be taken for granted and is contrary to the spirit of the times. Häberli-Koller has been a member of the Council of States since 2011.
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