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This is an archive article published on August 30, 2006
People with a difference
No starry airs in Switzerland
Written by J.L. Gupta
August 30, 2006 12:00 AM IST
2 min read
2 min read
The seven days in Switzerland were splendid. One evening we found ourselves in front of the Federal Palace 8212; Switzerland8217;s Parliament 8212; in Berne. There were no guards in evidence, no one in any kind of uniform. Can we get in, we wondered, and get to see the Swiss legislature in session?
Suddenly we noticed a couple of people coming out of the building. They looked friendly. One of them smiled, 8220;Tourists from India?8221; he asked. We explained that we were from New Delhi. The stranger talked about having once stayed in Rashtrapati Bhavan. He then wanted to know what he could do for us. 8220;Like to look around? Would you be interested in knowing about our system?8221; He caught me by the arm and led us to a room, explained a few things, answered questions, picked up a few pamphlets and gave them to me. He then told the gentleman with him to take care of us. With a warm handshake and a friendly smile, he walked out of the room and continued on his way.
The young man he left behind was patient and knowledgeable. He knew about the Swiss system of governance: he explained that the National Council has 200 members representing the people. The Council of States represents Switzerland8217;s 26 cantons. Both chambers are directly elected by the people. When in joint session, it is known as the United Federal Assembly. And then there are the Federal Supreme Court, Insurance Court and the Criminal Court giving the highest rulings.
Finally, it was time to say goodbye. We thanked him profusely for his pains. He took care to give us two visiting cards. And then I discovered that the man with the friendly smile was Pascal Couchepin, federal councillor and head of the Federal Department of Home Affairs, the Swiss counterpart of the Indian Home Minister.
No gunmen. No pilot or escort cars. No beepers. He just walked to his car and drove away. And then a passer-by asked me how I knew the former president of Switzerland? Oh yes! Pascal Couchepin was Switzerland8217;s president in the year 2003.
The Swiss are certainly people with a difference.
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