Ignazio Cassis

Swiss politician and member of the Federal Council

Ignazio Cassis in 2024

Ignazio Daniele Giovanni Cassis (born 13 April 1961) is a Swiss physician and politician who has been serving as a member of the Swiss Federal Council since 2017. He is affiliated with the FDP.The Liberals and has held the position of Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs.

Early life and education

Ignazio Cassis was born in Sessa, in the canton of Ticino, Switzerland. He grew up in a bilingual environment, speaking both Italian and German. Cassis pursued his medical studies at the University of Zurich, where he obtained his degree in medicine in 1987. He later specialized in internal medicine and public health.

Medical career

Before entering politics, Cassis had a distinguished career in medicine. He worked as a public health physician and held various positions in the Swiss healthcare system. His medical expertise and experience in public health policy have been influential in his political career, particularly in shaping health-related policies.

Political career

Early political involvement

Cassis began his political career in the Grand Council of Ticino, where he served from 2007 to 2015. During this time, he was known for his work on health and social policy issues. His leadership and expertise in these areas helped him gain recognition within his party.

Swiss Federal Council

In 2017, Ignazio Cassis was elected to the Swiss Federal Council, succeeding Didier Burkhalter. As a member of the Federal Council, Cassis took over the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs. His tenure has been marked by efforts to strengthen Switzerland's international relations and promote Swiss interests abroad.

Cassis with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Washington

Foreign policy initiatives

Cassis has been active in promoting Switzerland's role as a neutral mediator in international conflicts. He has emphasized the importance of multilateralism and Switzerland's commitment to humanitarian efforts. Under his leadership, the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs has focused on enhancing diplomatic ties with key global partners.

Personal life

Ignazio Cassis is married and has no children. He is known for his passion for music and enjoys playing the piano in his free time. Cassis is also an advocate for cultural exchange and has supported various initiatives to promote cultural understanding.

Related pages

• Swiss Federal Council
• FDP.The Liberals
• Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

Official photo of the Swiss Federal Council in 2022

External links

• Official website of Ignazio Cassis