Walter Thurnherr, Chancellor of the Confederation since 2016, has announced his unexpected resignation, marking a turning point within the Swiss government.
The Swiss political scene has been shaken by the surprise resignation of Walter Thurnherr, Chancellor of the Confederation, aged 60, who had held the position since January 1, 2016. This announcement caught many political observers off guard and raises questions about the reasons that led to this decision.
A career diplomat, Walter Thurnherr played a crucial role in the direction of the Swiss government’s staff. With a solid background in diplomacy, he had previously held positions of responsibility within the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) as well as in other government departments. His expertise and dedication marked his tenure as Chancellor, where he assisted the President of the Confederation and the Federal Council, and participated in the weekly sessions of the seven Wise Men.
Walter Thurnherr’s resignation also raises the crucial question of his successor. The appointment of the new Chancellor of the Confederation is scheduled for December 13, when President of the Confederation Alain Berset will also designate his replacement. This dual appointment could reshape the Swiss political landscape and impact the way the Confederation interacts with the international scene.
Walter Thurnherr’s career has been marked by his academic background in theoretical physics at EPFZ, followed by his transition to diplomacy in 1989. His years of service have included positions in Bern, Moscow, and New York, thus strengthening his global perspective. His role as Chancellor highlighted the importance of this position, often referred to as the “8th Federal Councillor,” in managing government affairs and Swiss diplomacy.
