In various countries with multi-party systems, there is the concept of government coalitions. As I understand it, it is similar to cartel agreements, which we prosecute under criminal law.
- But why are coalitions legal and needed?
- Why does the multi-party system in Switzerland work without coalitions?
It isn’t like a cartel. It is a continuation of the freedom of association.
In legislatures, the legislative body generally needs a majority to get anything done. To help with that process, parties will come together in an agreement on what will be done. The agreement can be as minor as supplying votes for certain policies to splitting up which government agencies are run by the different parties.
And Switzerland absolutely has a coalition government.