Administration
The present constitution dates back to 1874. There are 26 cantons
(three of which are sub-divided) and over 3000 communes. The Federal
Assembly is bicameral, comprising a Council of State (upper house)
with 46 members and a 200-strong National Council (lower house)
whose members are elected every four years.
Executive power is vested in the 7-member Federal Council, elected
by the Assembly, headed by an annually elected president. Whatever
the legislators decide, however, the Swiss people are aware that
they can take the issue to referendum by raising 100,000 signatures.
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