président

Präsident is a German term meaning “president.” It designates the title of a person who heads a state, an organization, or a body such as a club or company. The word derives from Latin praeses, meaning leader or chairman, and its use spans political offices and ceremonial roles in many German-speaking contexts.

In politics, the function of a president varies by system. In a presidential system, the president often serves as both head of state and head of government. In parliamentary systems, the role is typically more limited and largely ceremonial, with real power concentrated in a prime minister or chancellor and the cabinet. The president may act as a unifying symbol, represent the country abroad, sign legislation, and perform various constitutional duties.

Germany and Austria illustrate different uses of the title. In Germany, the Bundespräsident is the ceremonial head of state. Elected by the Federal Assembly for a five-year term and eligible for one renewal, the president’s duties are primarily representative, such as representing Germany internationally, signing laws, and appointing certain officials on the government’s proposal. In Austria, the Bundespräsident is also the directly elected head of state with constitutional powers that include appointing the government, representing the country, and, under defined circumstances, dissolving parliament.

Switzerland employs a rotating presidency within the Federal Council. The president, chosen annually from seven councilors, leads meetings and represents the council but does not accumulate broad personal executive power.

Beyond government, Präsident is used for leaders of organizations, clubs, companies, and academic or cultural institutions. The feminine form is Präsidentin.