Federation Council, Upper house of Federal Assembly in Moscow, Russia
The Federation Council is the upper chamber of the Russian Federal Assembly in Moscow and plays a central role in the parliamentary system. The body consists of two appointed representatives from each Russian region who together participate in legislation and foreign policy decisions.
The institution was created in 1993 after the collapse of the Soviet Union and was established in the new Russian Constitution as the upper chamber. Its founding marked the transition to a federal system with regional representation at the national level.
The building serves as a meeting place for regional delegates who deliberate on federal legislation during formal sessions. This political work happens behind closed doors and is generally not open to visitors, though the building itself stands as a symbol of state authority in the capital.
The building is located in the government district of Moscow and is not accessible to the public as ongoing parliamentary sessions take place inside. Visitors can view the exterior facade but should be aware that access to the interior is subject to strict security controls.
Members are not directly elected but appointed by regional governments and legislatures, which distinguishes this chamber from many other upper house institutions worldwide. Each of the 89 federal administrative divisions of Russia sends exactly two senators, resulting in a constant total membership.
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