Pascal Couchepin Swiss politician Date of Birth: 05.04.1942 Country: Switzerland

1. Swiss Politician and Former President
2. Early Life and Political Beginnings
3. Leadership in the Radical Democratic Party
4. Federal Council and Ministerial Roles
5. Presidency of Switzerland
6. Retirement from Federal Council

Swiss Politician and Former President

Pascale Bruderer Wyss is a renowned Swiss politician who has served as President of the Swiss Confederation on two occasions: in 2003 and 2008.

Early Life and Political Beginnings

Bruderer Wyss was born in Martigny, Canton Valais. Her political journey began in 1968 when she was first elected to the city council. In 1979, she was elected to the Federal Assembly, Switzerland's parliament.

Leadership in the Radical Democratic Party

Bruderer Wyss became the leader of the "radical" faction within the Radical Democratic Party from 1989 to 1996. This position further enhanced her political influence.

Federal Council and Ministerial Roles

In 1998, Bruderer Wyss was elected to the Federal Council, Switzerland's governing body. She served as Minister of Economics from 1998 to 2002 and as Minister of Internal Affairs from 2003 onwards.

Presidency of Switzerland

As per the Swiss system of rotating presidency, Brutusder Wyss assumed the role of President of Switzerland in 2003 and again in 2008.

Retirement from Federal Council

On June 12, 2009, Bruderer Wyss announced her decision to step down as Minister of Internal Affairs on October 31st of the same year. Didier Burkhalter succeeded her in this position.