Alain Berset assumed the role of Secretary General of the Council of Europe on 18 September 2024, following a decades-long career in Swiss government. As an economist and member of the Social Democratic Party, he transitioned from parliamentary duties in the Council of States to the executive branch, eventually serving two terms as President of the Swiss Confederation.
Legislative Origins
Born in Fribourg in 1972, Berset studied political science and economics at the University of Neuchâtel, completing a master’s degree in 1996 and a doctorate in 2005. His early political work included positions within the Constituent Assembly of Fribourg and the Belfaux communal parliament. In 2003, he entered the Swiss Council of States representing Fribourg, where he served as the body’s president during the 2008–2009 session.
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Berset joined the Swiss Federal Council in 2012, taking charge of the Federal Department of Home Affairs. During his time on the council, he was elected president twice, in 2018 and 2023. His tenure in the government saw him address significant administrative challenges, including the national response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He concluded his service as a Federal Councillor on 31 December 2023.
Public Scrutiny and Security Incidents
His time in office involved various high-profile public controversies. In 2020, reports emerged regarding an extortion attempt against him involving private correspondence, leading to an investigation into the use of state resources. Parliament cleared him of all misuse allegations in 2022. Additionally, in July 2022, French fighter jets intercepted his private Cessna 182 after he entered restricted airspace near the Avord Air Base.
European Governance
Following his departure from the Swiss executive branch, Berset sought international office. He became the Swiss candidate for the position of Secretary General of the Council of Europe in early 2024. After a selection process that included candidates from Belgium and Estonia, he won the election on 25 June 2024, succeeding Marija Pejčinović Burić.
Fast facts
- Born: 1972, Fribourg, Switzerland
- Education: University of Neuchâtel
- Political Party: Social Democratic Party
- President of the Swiss Confederation: 2018, 2023
- Secretary General of the Council of Europe: 2024–present
- Languages: French, German, Italian, Spanish, English
Questions readers ask
What subjects did Alain Berset study?
He studied political science and economics, earning a master's degree in 1996 and a doctorate in 2005.
When did Berset serve as President of the Swiss Confederation?
He held the office in 2018 and again in 2023.
Achievements
- Member of a municipal parliament (2001–2003)
- Member of the Swiss Council of States (2003–2011)
- President of the Swiss Council of States (2008–2009)
- Member of the Swiss Federal Council (2012–2023)
- Educated at University of Neuchâtel
