The Swiss Federal Supreme Court was established in 1848. However, it was not until 1874 that the constitution made it a permanent judicial body with powers corresponding to those of a true supreme court. The Federal Supreme Court, based in Lausanne in the canton of Vaud, began working in 1875. As such, it is one of the oldest supreme courts still in operation in Europe.

The Federal Supreme Court celebrated its 150th anniversary with a symposium and a ceremony held on 15 and 16 May. In addition to the highest ranking officials of the Swiss Confederation and current and former judges of the Court, the event was attended by leading representatives of the judiciary from many European countries, members of the academic community, and other legal professionals. The Constitutional Court of the Czech Republic was represented in Lausanne by its President Josef Baxa.

Pavel Dvořák
Head of External Relations and Protocol Department
 

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