Political geographer Michael Hermann on the political style of the people of Bern and Zurich
Published: Saturday, Jan 13th 2024, 04:50
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Zurich people "shake things up" and Bernese people are precision mechanics: political geographer Michael Hermann has identified clear differences between politicians - provided they come from Zurich or Bern.
"The people of Zurich have the energy and the will to break open crusts and turn everything on its head," said the head of the Sotomo research center in an interview with "Schweiz am Wochenende". Christoph Blocher did this for the SVP, Martin Bäumle with the founding of the GLP and Migros founder Gottlieb Duttweiler with his National League of Independents (LDU).
"Such Zurich personalities break with tradition and shake things up," said Hermann. "But the Bernese have a better understanding of how the mechanics of political power work." For example, Albert Rösti from Bern won his election to the Federal Council against competition from Zurich. "As a Federal Councillor, he has already made more of a difference than Christoph Blocher did."
Hermann sees the reason for this in the respective characteristics of the cantons: Zurich is more influenced by the economy, while Bern is more influenced by politics. "Anyone who sets a brisk pace in politics, as is the case in business, runs the risk of running aground," says Hermann. "You have to know how to play with the system. The fewer opposing forces are mobilized, the further you get in politics. The typical Bernese politician is more respectful and approachable. The typical Zurich people are cheekier and fresher."
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