Switzerland: Economy Minister Guy Parmelin Elected New President for 2026

The Swiss economy minister, Guy Parmelin, has been elected by the two chambers of the Federal Assembly as President for 2026, the Parliament announced.

In Switzerland, the presidency is not the head of state: that role remains collective, held by the seven-member federal government. The Swiss presidency simply rotates annually among the ministers.

Parmelin, who represents the right-wing conservative party (UDC), secured a record result with 203 votes out of 210 valid ballots.

He will assume the office on 1 January 2026, while continuing his ministerial responsibilities.

Observers note that this rotating presidency rarely changes the country’s policies, since all major decisions remain collective within the government.

For Parmelin, this will be his second term as President — he previously held the position in 2021.