List of cantonal legislatures of Switzerland

This is a list of cantonal legislatures of Switzerland. Each canton of Switzerland has a democratically-elected cantonal legislature, as well as electing members to the Federal Assembly.

The largest legislatures, in Zürich and St. Gallen, have 180 members each, whilst the smallest, in less-populous Appenzell Innerrhoden, has only 49 members. Appenzell Innerrhoden is also the only legislature that is non-partisan. All other legislatures operate party political systems. The Swiss People's Party (SVP) are the largest party in ten legislatures, whilst FDP.The Liberals and the Christian Democratic People's Party (CVP) are the largest in seven each and the Social Democratic Party (SP) are the largest in one legislature.

Two cantons, Appenzell Innerrhoden and Glarus, hold Landsgemeinden as their highest legislative body. Under this system, a form of direct democracy, all adult citizens may attend an annual general assembly, where they may vote on laws. A permanent legislature also sits more frequently, but sovereignty resides with the Landsgemeinden. For the purpose of this article, the permanent legislature is considered the cantonal legislature.

Notes

1. ^ ^{a b} The ultimate legislative body is the annual Landsgemeinde.
2. ^ FDP.The Liberals has two local chapters: one for each of its predecessor parties. The Free Democrats have 29 seats and the Liberals have 19 seats. If counted separately, the Social Democrats are the largest party, with 38 seats.

See also

• List of cantonal executives of Switzerland

References