The General Secretariat as a staff unit supports the Head of the Department in his daily work. 
In particular:

• it coordinates business for parliament and for the Federal Council
• it informs the general public about the activities of the Department 
• it ensures equality of opportunity in the FDFA
• it checks the effectiveness of internal controlling and control systems for all the areas covered by the Department 
• it deals with all historical questions that concern the Department.

Presence Switzerland is subordinate to the General Secretariat.