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Elisabeth KoppSwiss lawyer, politician
Date of Birth: 16.12.1936
Country:  Switzerland |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Entry into Politics
- Historic Election to the Federal Council
- Resignation and Scandal
- Later Life and Legacy
Early Life and Career
Elizabeth Kopp was born into a prominent Swiss family. Her father, Max Iklé, was the vice president of the Swiss National Bank, while her great-great-grandfather, Ferdinand Adolf Neff, was the brother of Swiss President Wilhelm Matthias Neff. After graduating from the University of Zurich with a law degree in 1960, Kopp began her political career.
Entry into Politics
In 1969, Kopp was elected to the municipal council of Zumikon. She went on to serve on the Zurich cantonal council from 1972 to 1984. During this time, she also held the position of mayor of Zumikon. As a member of the Free Democratic Party, she was elected to the Swiss National Council in 1979.
Historic Election to the Federal Council
In October 1984, Kopp made history by becoming the first woman elected to the Swiss Federal Council, the country's executive body. She was appointed to head the Department of Justice and Police. The following year, she was chosen as vice president of Switzerland for 1989.
Resignation and Scandal
Kopp's tenure as vice president was short-lived. Just two days after her election, she was involved in a scandal that forced her to resign. She was accused of violating official secrecy by informing her husband, Hans Kopp, about a report alleging money laundering by his company. Although the accusations against her husband were later cleared, Kopp's political career was effectively over.
Later Life and Legacy
After stepping down, Elizabeth Kopp returned to her legal practice. She continued to be a vocal advocate for women in politics and played an influential role in the development of the Swiss legal system. Kopp passed away in 2021 at the age of 92. She left behind a lasting legacy as a trailblazer for women in Swiss politics and a respected figure in the legal community.
