Didier Burkhalter

Burkhalter was elected to the Federal Council and headed the Federal Department of Home Affairs from 2012 to 2019. He oversaw health, social security, and cultural policies, including reforms to the healthcare system.

Burkhalter was elected President of the Swiss Confederation for 2014, focusing on foreign policy and European relations. He chaired the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) during a critical period of the Ukraine crisis.

As OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Burkhalter mediated efforts to de-escalate the Ukraine crisis, including the Geneva Statement of April 2014. He worked to facilitate dialogue between Russia, Ukraine, and Western powers, though with limited success.

Burkhalter worked to strengthen Switzerland's bilateral agreements with the European Union, particularly in areas of research and education. He advocated for continued Swiss participation in EU programs like Horizon 2020.

Burkhalter announced his resignation from the Federal Council, effective at the end of 2019. He cited personal reasons and a desire to pursue new opportunities. His departure marked the end of a significant political career.