Beat Jans

Beat Jans is a Swiss politician and environmental scientist who has served as a member of the Swiss Federal Council since January 1, 2024, currently leading the Federal Department of Justice and Police. Born in Basel, he began his career in agricultural development and environmental science before entering politics. He served as a member of the National Council from 2010 to 2020 and as president of the Executive Council of Basel-Stadt from 2021 to 2023. A member of the Social Democratic Party, Jans is known for his environmental advocacy and has been characterized as a pragmatic unifier within his party, though he faces criticism from political opponents regarding his policy positions on surveillance and data retention.