CVP/PDC at a Glance

Flag of Switzerland

Christlichdemokratische Volkspartei der Schweiz / Parti démocrate-chrétien

Christian Democratic People's Party of Switzerland

Centre-Right

Flag of European Parliament

-

No affiliated group in the European Parliament

Political Compass
Conservative
Social
Market-oriented
Progressive
Stance on the EU
Anti-EU
Pro-EU
The CVP (today part of 'The Centre' party) is a Christian Democratic and centrist party in Switzerland. It sees itself as a formative power of the political middle ground, combining social security with economic freedom based on Christian values, and assuming governmental responsibility.

Values and Worldview

The party's foundation rests on a Christian understanding of humanity, without being denominationally bound. At its core are subsidiarity, solidarity, and personal responsibility. The party strives for a balance between individual liberty and community welfare. Its worldview is conservative regarding social stability, yet progressive on social issues. The state is seen as a necessary framework that protects freedom, but should only intervene when the community or individuals are unable to cope.

Policy Priorities

The party's agenda focuses on safeguarding social welfare systems, strengthening families, and promoting Switzerland as an attractive economic hub. It often positions itself as a bridge-builder in pension and healthcare policy. The party primarily addresses the broad centrist population: families, SME owners, and employees who seek stability. In European policy, it pursues a pragmatic course that supports bilateral relations, while in environmental matters, it advocates for market-based incentives over outright prohibitions.

Role in the Political System

As a historic governing party, it plays a pivotal role in the Swiss political system. Within the consensus democracy, it acts as a crucial balancing force between the left and right blocs. Its core strategy is compromise.

Historical Election Results

CVP/PDC: Election Result Trends in Switzerland

History of Government Participation since 1945

Power Dynamics: Historical Government Roles
Leading Government
In Government
0

Total Cabinet Participations

Total Duration: -

0

Cabinets Led

Total Duration: -

0

Coalition Participations

Total Duration: -

0%

Time in Government

The party participated in government for 0% of the legislative period.

No historical government involvement

Data Sources and Methodology

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ParlGov – Parliamentary Democracy Data

A comprehensive research database from the University of Bremen, documenting parties, elections, and governments for comparative analysis.

Additional Sources

Döring, Holger and Philip Manow. 2024. Parliaments and governments database (ParlGov).

CHES – Chapel Hill Expert Survey

The leading expert survey on party positions in Europe. Over 400 political scientists document party stances based on rigorous scientific criteria.

Additional Sources

Rovny, Jan, et al. “25 Years of Political Party Positions in Europe: The Chapel Hill Expert Survey, 1999-2024.”