September 17, 1849: Swiss Citizens Accept the Swiss Federal Constitution

On September 17, 1849, the Swiss citizens agreed to the Swiss Federal Constitution, marking a pivotal transformation leading to the formation of the modern Swiss Confederation. This constitution laid down the foundation for Switzerland’s current federal structure, with significant implications for its political, social, and economic systems.

Context and Lead-Up to the 1849 Constitution

Before the establishment of the federal constitution, Switzerland was a loose confederation of 22 cantons, each operating with considerable autonomy. The lack of central authority had long impeded coordinated national policies. Inspired by revolutionary movements sweeping across Europe and internal pressures, Swiss reformers sought to forge a more unified national structure.

The catalyst for the change was the Sonderbund War (1847), where a group of Catholic conservative cantons sought to secede from the confederation to preserve their autonomy and resist liberal reforms. The swift defeat of the Sonderbund by federal forces underscored the need for a more cohesive and unified constitutional framework. In the aftermath, efforts intensified to establish a federal government capable of maintaining internal harmony and guaranteeing collective defense.

Key Features of the Constitution

The constitution adopted in 1848, reaffirmed by Swiss citizens in 1849, established Switzerland as a federal state, sharing powers between a central government and individual cantons. Key features included:

• Federal Structure: A strong central government was created with powers over defense, trade, and foreign affairs, while cantons retained control over education, welfare, and local law.
• Bicameral Legislature: The formation of a federal legislature composed of the National Council and the Council of States, representing the population and cantonal interests, respectively.
• Direct Democracy: Swiss citizens gained the right to vote on constitutional amendments and federal referenda, establishing a tradition of participative governance.
• Civil Liberties: The guarantee of civil liberties, including freedom of expression and religion, aimed at fostering internal unity and cooperation among the diverse cantonal cultures.

Significance and Aftermath

The acceptance of the Federal Constitution marked the birth of the modern Swiss state and solidified its neutrality and federal principles. It transformed Switzerland’s internal dynamics, enhancing political stability and setting the stage for economic development. The constitution has since been revised multiple times to accommodate changing conditions, but its core principles continue to guide Swiss governance.

The shift to a federal state not only diffused potential inter-cantonal conflicts but also allowed Switzerland to maintain its unique model of direct democracy and diverse cantonal autonomy. It served as a foundation for Switzerland’s reputation for political stability and strong democratic institutions that characterizes the nation to this day.