The acid test for our political culture.
Thursday, 27. February 2014, 18:30 – 20:00 h
At the University of Zurich, Rämistrasse 71, 8006 Zurich, KOH-B-10
What holds Switzerland together at its core? It is the ability to reach compromises that are greater than the lowest common denominator, despite our diversity. And it is also the trust in social stability and social security. Against this backdrop, the Federal Council's "Pensions 2020" reform will be a litmus test for our political culture. If we succeed in sustainably reforming and stabilising the pension system, we will strengthen more than just social security in our country - we will strengthen Switzerland as a whole.
After completing his studies and doctorate in political science and economics, Alain Berset worked as a visiting researcher at the Institute for Economic Research in Hamburg before becoming a strategic advisor in the Department of Economic Affairs of the Canton of Neuchâtel. In 2006, he set up his own business as an independent strategy and communications consultant. He was elected to the Council of States for the canton of Friburg in 2003 and served as its president in 2008/2009. From 2005, he also served as vice president of the Social Democratic parliamentary group and was a member of numerous parliamentary committees. He chaired the Council Bureau, the State Policy Commission and the delegation of the Parliamentary Assembly of La Francophonie. Since January 1, 2012, Alain Berset has been head of the Department of Home Affairs FDHA. Alain Berset was Vice President of the Federal Council in 2017 and President of the Swiss Confederation in 2018.