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Trade policy

Swiss watchmaking industry grapples with spike in US trade tariffs

The 39% customs duties on Swiss exports to the US, which came into force a month ago, are a big concern for watchmakers. How will they react?

By Alexey Tarkhanov

Trade policy

Explainer: How the new US tariffs are already impacting the Swiss economy

By Giannis Mavris

people with umbrellas in front of rolex shop

Trade policy

Americans face price rises for luxury watches after Trump’s Swiss tariffs

Swiss watch movements are worn on wrists throughought the world

Swiss watchmakers feel pinch amid luxury slump

With US in retreat, can Switzerland maintain fight against kleptocracy?

This content was published on Sep 11, 2025 The tough task of uncovering illicit finance held by corrupt officials and returning stolen assets is being complicated by slow progress and waning US leadership.

Cosmic collisions, an interactive display created by the Laboratory for Experimental Museology (eM+), EPFL.

Art condenses the universe into tangible reality in Beijing

This content was published on Sep 12, 2025 As Switzerland and China mark 75 years of diplomatic relations with a year of joint cultural and tourism events, Beijing is hosting an exhibition celebrating the meeting of science and art.

Fighters from Arab Bedouin tribes gather in Syria's southern Sweida province amid fierce clashes with Druze gunmen on July 18, 2025. Reports indicate that dozens have been killed in intense fighting between Druze fighters and Sunni Bedouin tribes. (Photo by Rami Alsayed/NurPhoto) (Photo by Rami Alsayed / NurPhoto via AFP)

In Geneva, Syrian minorities demand protection and federalism

This content was published on Sep 11, 2025 After years of conflict, Syrian minorities are urging world leaders to block any normalisation of relations with the new authorities in Damascus.

Switzerland Today

This content was published on Sep 12, 2025 Two key positions in the defence ministry have been filled: the head of the armed forces and the head of the Federal Intelligence Service.

Swiss e-ID vote: ‘Digitalisation must serve citizens’ interests’

This content was published on Sep 10, 2025 Will people in Switzerland soon have an ID card on their phone rather than in their wallet? Two guests debate ahead of the September 28 vote.

People overlooking lake of Zurich with mountains in the background

The Swiss Abroad have less trust in Swiss politics, says poll

This content was published on Sep 10, 2025 A major SBC opinion poll shows that satisfaction is high among the Swiss Abroad but there is criticism regarding politics and the welfare state.

Human Rights Council meets in Geneva amid budget crisis

This content was published on Sep 9, 2025 The UN’s main human rights body has begun its final session of the year in a context of budgetary woes and geopolitical tensions.

Geopolitics

Brazilian soldiers disembark in Naples during the summer of 1944.

How Switzerland protected Latin American interests in Nazi Europe

Swiss watchmaking industry grapples with spike in US trade tariffs

Timeline: Switzerland and the war in the Middle East since October 7, 2023

In Geneva, Syrian minorities demand protection and federalism

With US in retreat, can Switzerland maintain fight against kleptocracy?

Human Rights Council meets in Geneva amid budget crisis

Explainer: How the new US tariffs are already impacting the Swiss economy

The Swiss-Tunisian Mustapha Djemali (left) has been in prison for over a year without charge. His daughter Yusra Djemali and his son Fadhel Djemali are very worried. They would like to see more commitment from the Swiss authorities.

Relatives fear for 81-year-old Swiss detained in Tunisia

Sand, an overexploited resource at the heart of global tensions

Fake news spread abroad about Switzerland is a liability

Vitol capitalised better than competitors on disruptions in energy markets

Vitol: the secretive trading giant minting fortunes for its employees

To be taken seriously, Swiss neutrality is armed.

Swiss neutrality: your questions answered

Inside Geneva’s Summer Profiles: Stéphane Jaquemet

Russia has been increasing its isolation in technology, culture and education.

Russia bans International Baccalaureate over ‘Russophobia’

On August 13, Roskomnadzor, the state media regulator, restricted calls on WhatsApp and Telegram, calling them “main voice services used to deceive and extort money, and to involve Russian citizens in sabotage and terrorist activities”

Behind Russia’s digital Iron Curtain: how the West and Switzerland look online

Middle East crisis

Swiss parliament does not want sanctions against Israel

This content was published on Sep 11, 2025 Like the Senate, the House of Representatives was against a proposal to impost sanctions against Israel.

NGO Médecins Sans Frontières denounces "genocide in Gaza" in Bern

Médecins Sans Frontières denounces Gaza ‘genocide’

This content was published on Sep 10, 2025 NGO Médecins Sans Frontières Suisse demonstrate against ‘genocide’ in the Gaza Strip.

Council of States against Switzerland recognising Palestine

Senate against Switzerland recognising Palestine

This content was published on Sep 9, 2025 The Swiss Senate does not want Switzerland to recognise the state of Palestine at present. On Tuesday it rejected an initiative by canton Geneva calling for this.

Council of States does not want sanctions against Israeli settlers

Swiss Senate rejects sanctions against Israeli settlers

This content was published on Sep 9, 2025 The Swiss Senate has rejected a call for Switzerland to join the EU’s sanctions against violent Israeli settlers. The majority also did not want an end to military cooperation with Israel.

The UN denounces the "genocidal rhetoric" of Israeli leaders

UN denounces ‘genocidal rhetoric’ of Israeli leaders

This content was published on Sep 8, 2025 Israel is committing war crime after war crime in the Gaza Strip, according to the United Nations.

Zurich Cantonal Council wants "no taxpayers' money for terrorists"

Zurich authorities want ‘no taxpayer money for terrorists’

This content was published on Sep 8, 2025 Zurich cantonal parliament has voted against recognising the state of Palestine. However, it provisionally supported a motion calling for “no taxpayers’ money for terrorists”.

Resinous Swiss Armed Forces drone project to be redimensioned

Switzerland to press on with Israeli drone procurement after some adjustments

This content was published on Sep 4, 2025 The Swiss defence ministry has decided to reconfigure the procurement project for six Israeli ADS-15 drones and dispense with certain functionalities.

Former diplomats call on Switzerland to act

Former diplomats criticise Switzerland’s silence on Gaza

This content was published on Aug 31, 2025 Former diplomats urge Switzerland to take concrete action over Gaza conflict.

Palestinians struggle to get donated food at a community kitchen in Gaza City, northern Gaza Strip, Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025.

UN-backed report declaring famine in Gaza ‘important’ but won’t change much

This content was published on Aug 22, 2025 Declaring a famine in Gaza is important but won’t bring any short-term relief to the Palestinian population, experts say.

UN declares famine in Gaza, the first in the Middle East

Famine confirmed in Gaza for first time, says UN-backed report

This content was published on Aug 22, 2025 Famine has been declared in a northern part of the Gaza Strip, according to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) system.

Philippe Lazzarini has overseen UNRWA since 2020.

UNRWA boss Lazzarini to step down in March 2026

This content was published on Aug 22, 2025 Philippe Lazzarini will step down as head of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) at the end of his term in March, he announced on Thursday.

Switzerland rejects new Israeli settlements in Palestinian territory

This content was published on Aug 16, 2025 Switzerland says it rejects the announced construction of thousands of housing units in the Israeli-occupied Palestinian West Bank.

Switzerland and the EU denounce a situation of famine in Gaza

Switzerland, EU and over 20 nations call for urgent action to stop famine in Gaza

This content was published on Aug 13, 2025 Switzerland, the European Union and 23 other countries have sharply criticised the “unfolding famine” situation in Gaza and called for urgent action.

Swiss participate in flotilla against sea blockade in Gaza

Swiss citizens will also participate in flotilla against Gaza blockade

This content was published on Aug 12, 2025 Swiss citizens are also taking part in the worldwide flotilla that intends to break the sea blockade in Gaza. The Waves of Freedom Association (WOFA) plans to leave with five boats loaded with baby milk powder and water filters.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, pictured in 2023.

Switzerland concerned by fresh Israeli plans for Gaza

This content was published on Aug 8, 2025 The foreign ministry has said it is “deeply concerned” about Israel’s plans to expand military operations in the Gaza Strip.

Global trade war

US Secretary of Commerce Lutnick believes in customs deal with Switzerland

US Secretary of Commerce confident of Swiss tariff deal

This content was published on Sep 12, 2025 US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick confident about striking a customs deal with Switzerland.

Despite US tariff hammer: Swiss SME sentiment remains stable

Swiss SME sentiment remains stable despite steep US tariffs

This content was published on Sep 11, 2025 Despite the high US tariffs, the mood among Swiss SMEs has hardly deteriorated. However, two-thirds of export-oriented companies have now adjusted their export strategy.

Council of States wants to counter high US tariffs with extended short-time working

Swiss Senate votes to extend short-time working to counter tariffs

This content was published on Sep 10, 2025 Swiss Senate approves extension of short-time working compensation in the face of US tariffs.

US Supreme Court to hear case on Trump's tariffs

Swiss await US Supreme Court ruling on tariffs

This content was published on Sep 10, 2025 US Supreme Court to rule on legality of Trump’s tariff policy, which impacts Swiss imports duties.

Mechanical engineering companies have been struggling with weak growth, and not just since Trump

Swiss mechanical firms were struggling before Trump

This content was published on Sep 8, 2025 Swiss mechanical engineering companies are said to be one of the main victims of Donald Trump’s high tariffs. However, the industry has been struggling for years.

Parmelin speaks of "constructive meetings" in Washington

Swiss held ‘constructive’ tariff meeting in Washington

This content was published on Sep 6, 2025 Tariff talks between Switzerland and the US described as “constructive”.

Economics Minister Guy Parmelin travelled to the USA at short notice

Swiss economics minister pays short-notice visit to US

This content was published on Sep 5, 2025 Swiss Economics Minister travels to US at short notice on Friday to hold talks at ministerial level.

Consumer goods rose 0.2% in price from a year ago

Swiss inflation stays steady in face of US tariffs

This content was published on Sep 5, 2025 Swiss inflation stayed positive for a third consecutive month, as Swiss economy weathers US tariffs.

Swiss Post to re-start shipping some packages to US

This content was published on Sep 2, 2025 From Thursday, private customers will once again be able to send packages with a value of up to $100 (CHF80) to the United States via Swiss Post.

Bern is said to be courting US tech giants with tax breaks

Switzerland mulls tax breaks for US digital giants: media report

This content was published on Sep 1, 2025 Switzerland is reportedly ready to offer digital company tax breaks to remove US tariffs.

Swiss gold refiners reject tariff relocation

This content was published on Sep 1, 2025 Swiss gold refiners oppose relocation of some operations to the US to ease trade imbalance.

Sahgal says judgement weakens US negotiating position

US court ruling on tariffs weakens US negotiating position with Switzerland

This content was published on Aug 31, 2025 US court ruling limits Trump’s tariff powers, complicating trade talks with Switzerland.

USA ends duty-free for parcels from all over the world

US ends duty-free for parcels from all over the world

This content was published on Aug 29, 2025 Postal service providers in numerous countries such as Switzerland have announced that they will no longer accept most parcels destined for the US.

Gold shipments to the United States soared in July

Swiss gold shipments to US soared in July

This content was published on Aug 21, 2025 Swiss gold exports to the US soared in July – almost five times as much compared to the previous year.

Swiss exports to the US, adjusted for seasonal swings, rose 1.1% in July compared to June

Swiss exports to US were growing before stinging tariffs

This content was published on Aug 21, 2025 Swiss exports to the US rose 1.1% between June and July, just before 39% tariffs were launched.

Swiss Abroad

What difficulties did you face when renewing your identity documents abroad?

The Swiss Abroad have less trust in Swiss politics, says poll

Swiss e-ID vote: ‘Digitalisation must serve citizens’ interests’

Hildegard Rosenthal working on her photo enlarger, next to a tray of coffee, in 1942

The Swiss woman who fled the Nazis and changed Brazilian photojournalism

Foreign policy looms large as Swiss parliament begins autumn session

Photo taken of US president Donald Trump through a Swiss cross

Swiss worried by world under Trump, says poll

Damien Hauser revamps the tenets of Afrofuturism - a genre that centers Black history and culture and incorporates science-fiction, technology, and futuristic elements - by mixing indie filmmaking (low budgets, non-professional actors) with AI tools to create grandiose sceneries.

Swiss-Kenyan filmmaker sets lo-fi love story in hi-tech future

Relatives fear for 81-year-old Swiss detained in Tunisia

Moving abroad made easy

Part-time Swiss Abroad: raising children between countries

This content was published on Aug 13, 2025 Kids and school schedules can make the juggling act of an international life even more complicated.

How to vote from abroad as a Swiss citizen

This content was published on Jun 25, 2025 Living outside Switzerland doesn’t mean losing your right to vote. Yet only a small percentage of Swiss citizens living abroad actually cast their ballots. Here’s a short guide on how to vote from abroad.

From CV to interview: how to apply for a job abroad

This content was published on Jun 26, 2025 Applying for jobs in other countries means adjusting to different standards and expectations.

Emigrating with family: what to do if a child doesn’t want to move

This content was published on Jun 26, 2025 New surroundings, new school, new friends – emigration can be a daunting prospect for children. Two experts share their tips.

From emigration to arrival: How to successfully integrate abroad

This content was published on Jun 26, 2025 From culture shock to new friendships: experts share their tips for successful integration and making new friends.

Files next to a globe on a desk in an office of the Swiss Federal Statistical Office in Neuchatel in the canton of Neuchatel, Switzerland, pictured on November 6, 2010.

Tax information when emigrating from Switzerland: what you need to know

This content was published on Jan 7, 2025 Tax liability in Switzerland does not always end at the country’s border – here’s what you should bear in mind when moving abroad.

Voting from abroad: How to register for Swiss elections

This content was published on Oct 16, 2024 Switzerland grants voting rights to its citizens living abroad. If you want to exercise your voting rights, you must first get on the electoral register.

young woman sitting on the floor in an empty room with laptop and suitcase

What you need to know to get a job abroad

This content was published on Feb 5, 2025 Emigrating from Switzerland in search of work in another country? Here is some sound advice.

Emigration and pension benefits: how to save on taxes

This content was published on Jan 28, 2025 Taxes are due when withdrawing pension fund capital. Swiss citizens living abroad may, under certain circumstances, reclaim a portion of these taxes.

What you need to know to get a job abroad

This content was published on Apr 3, 2025 Got a Swiss passport and dreaming of working abroad? We’ll show you how to get started in under 90 seconds – the countdown is on!

Swiss abroad health insurance – what are the options?

This content was published on Jan 6, 2025 Should you take out insurance abroad? Or with a health insurance company in Switzerland? Is that even possible? We explain.

A family of five paddling in the sea at sunset, on the beach.

Emigration: what steps should I take to leave Switzerland?

This content was published on Jan 23, 2025 This article, along with a practical checklist, will guide you step by step through the emigration process – supplemented with further helpful articles and links.

Bringing a pet to Switzerland requires meticulous preparation

This content was published on Feb 13, 2025 Whether visiting Switzerland on holiday or arriving to live permanently, entering the country with a pet involves a number of steps and formalities. Here’s what you need to know.

Bank account for Swiss citizens living abroad

Five things to know about your Swiss bank account before emigrating

This content was published on Dec 23, 2024 Swiss Abroad frequently pay significantly higher fees at Swiss banks than their compatriots in Switzerland. You can find an overview of prices here.

Private relocation, two young ladies carry a crate into a house. packing boxes well is inmportant for Moving abroad

Moving abroad: a helpful checklist

This content was published on Dec 23, 2024 Planning on emigrating? This checklist including expert tips will guide you through the logistical steps.

Swiss state pensions abroad and what you need to know

This content was published on Apr 8, 2023 How can I claim my state pension abroad? Can I still make voluntary contributions from outside Switzerland? Answers to some FAQs.

Swiss passengers queuing to check in their luggage in a Swiss airport

Culture shock: The four phases of emigration

This content was published on Dec 23, 2024 Moving abroad is an exciting but often challenging experience. Many emigrants experience different phases between culture shock and assimilation.

Everything you need to know to organize your move abroad

This content was published on Apr 28, 2025 Organize your move abroad: everything you need to know in 90 seconds.

Swiss Oddities

How Switzerland became the ‘motherland of minigolf’

This content was published on Sep 6, 2025 Why was minigolf standardised in Switzerland, and how did it then conquer the country?

In Switzerland, it is not unusual to keep a few gold coins among other precious objects.

The Swiss and their gold Vrenelis, an enduring love affair

This content was published on Aug 30, 2025 The minting of a new coin generated enormous interest but turned into an online fiasco.

Democratic din: voters to decide fate of leaf blowers in Zurich

This content was published on Aug 28, 2025 In Switzerland’s biggest city, the ‘world’s most notorious power tool’ is facing a public ballot.

Ups and downs: a first taste of competitive Swiss flag throwing

This content was published on Aug 23, 2025 Alexander, 15, takes part in his first competition for flag-throwing, one of four Swiss living traditions.

The unveiling of the White Tower on May 19, 2025, attracted many onlookers. At the top left of the picture, the shell disappears by helicopter.

Digital architecture sets world record in Swiss Alps

This content was published on Aug 16, 2025 At 30 metres, Tor Alva – the White Tower of Mulegns – is the tallest 3D-printed building in the world.

No glasses for chickens – and other odd Swiss animal laws

This content was published on Aug 9, 2025 Switzerland animal welfare laws appear to go further than other countries. But is this really the case?

Zurich court does not recognise "perpetual hereditary citizenship"

Zurich court rejects ‘perpetual hereditary citizenship’ for Austrian man

This content was published on Aug 5, 2025 The man had invoked a hereditary right of citizenship dating back to the 15th century.

The Toblerone Trail: a unique walk through Swiss history and nature

This content was published on Aug 2, 2025 The 18km trail is a reminder of a key part of Switzerland’s war-time heritage. It’s also just a wonderful hike.

The Swiss national anthem: outdated but resilient

This content was published on Jul 26, 2025 It’s hardly the most stirring national anthem, and few know it by heart, but the Swiss Psalm has survived all attempts at replacement.

The historic façade of the Théâtre du Jorat.

The Théâtre du Jorat, Switzerland’s ‘sublime barn’

This content was published on Jul 19, 2025 The Théâtre du Jorat has an identity that is unique in Switzerland. A look at its extraordinary history.

Silvan, the man who smells the weather

This content was published on Jul 12, 2025 The Wetterschmöcker, the weather prophets of central Switzerland, make their predictions by observing nature.

The Zytglogge, the mechanical heart of the city of Bern

This content was published on Jul 5, 2025 The Zytglogge in Bern has one of the very few astronomical clocks in Europe that still works and is fully mechanical.

Our highlights

The SWIplus app: your connection to Switzerland

Discover the brand new SWIplus app – specifically for the Swiss Abroad.

Lost Cells

Listen to ‘Lost Cells’: a podcast on the realities of private stem cell banking

Follow us on TikTok!

Come visit us on TikTok for our behind-the-scenes footage and short videos on everything from culture to politics to Swiss traditions.

Swiss popular votes – everything you need to know

Subscribe to our special newsletter to get all the latest information you need on Swiss popular votes.

Join the debate on “dialogue”

This content was published on Feb 10, 2025 Read selected articles from across Switzerland and discuss current issues with people living in Switzerland and fellow Swiss Abroad in our debates.

Watch us on YouTube!

Visit our YouTube channel for informative and entertaining videos on a range of topics, including science, politics and Swiss people living abroad.

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Explore Science stories and research from Swiss universities, research institutions and businesses. Please listen and follow the Swiss Connection Podcast.

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We’re now live on Threads too. Tap this link to follow our new account and get updates on all our stories from Switzerland.

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Swiss Film Selection

SWI swissinfo.ch offers a selection of Swiss films in English chosen from the Swiss streaming platform Play Suisse.

Let’s talk

“Let’s Talk” is SWI swissinfo.ch’s format to discuss relevant topics with high-profile experts and political figures.

Special reports

Check out our long format stories on topics like the Swiss pharma industry, Switzerland’s struggles with dirty gold, and living in the Alps.

Switzerland: How To

How do you dispose of rubbish in Switzerland? What are the visa requirements? It’s all here.

Do you trust that your country can withstand attacks against its democracy?

Democracies are increasingly coming under threat, both from within and without. How do your country’s institutions fare?

Join the discussion

Sep 11, 2025

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Watch now

Swiss neutrality: your questions answered – Part two

Is Switzerland ready to embrace digital ID?

Are US patients subsidising healthcare abroad? Journalist Jessica Davis Pluess takes a look at this claim.

Truth or tale: Are US patients subsidising healthcare in Switzerland?

Swiss neutrality: your questions answered – Part one

Photo of man deciding between apples or chocolate

Are social scores a threat to democracy?

What does it mean to you as a Swiss Abroad to take part in the Swiss Wrestling and Alpine Festival?

Between two worlds: Thomas Badat, a Canadian wrestler with a Swiss heart

Europe’s tallest dam turns 75

The Council of the Swiss Abroad meets in Bern

Women of the Helsinki Movement

Photo of a young woman in a street with Swiss flag in the background.

Why is the Swiss flag square?

A man standing in front of an image of a smartphone

How semiconductors are made

A woman speaking into a microphone with an airport in the background.

Truth or tale: is Switzerland injecting harmful chemicals into the sky?

Figure it out: in Switzerland, migration isn’t just inbound

Photo of a young woman in front of the Swiss parliament

Why is Switzerland’s national anthem not widely known among its citizens?

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External Content

Bloomberg Business

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Wall Street Rallies as Fed Gets All-Clear to Cut: Markets Wrap

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Billion-Dollar Firms Kick Open European IPO Window: ECM Watch

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Billion-Dollar Firms Kick Open European IPO Window: ECM Watch

This content was published on Sep 11, 2025 – 17:47

Lutnick Signals Optimism on Trade With Taiwan, Switzerland

This content was published on Sep 11, 2025 – 03:12

UBS CEO Says Tariff Impact on Inflation, Fed Still Unclear

This content was published on Sep 10, 2025 – 22:44

S&P 500 Rally Builds as Inflation Sinks Before CPI: Markets Wrap

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SNB Lifts Veil on Rate Meetings With New Discussion Summary

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Schlegel Says SNB Won’t Hesitate to Cut Rate Again If Needed

This content was published on Sep 9, 2025 – 22:22

S&P 500 Hits Record as Bonds Fall Before Inflation: Markets Wrap

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Novartis to Buy US Biotech Tourmaline Bio for $1.4 Billion

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Goldman, BofA Favor Swiss Franc Over Yen as Haven Bet

This content was published on Sep 9, 2025 – 10:32

Swiss Lawmakers Vote to Move Ahead on Bank Capital Revamp

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Spar of South Africa Sells Swiss Unit to Focus on Home Market

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Stocks Near Record as Fed-Cut Trade in Full Swing: Markets Wrap

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S&P Warns of Reinsurer Protections as Catastrophe Risks Escalate

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Swiss Watchmakers Sound Upbeat on US as Long as Stocks Last

The Swiss woman who fled the Nazis and changed Brazilian photojournalism

This content was published on Sep 9, 2025 A pioneer of photojournalism, Hildegard Rosenthal’s work reveals a São Paulo in transformation – and a legacy that continues to inspire.

Explainer: How the new US tariffs are already impacting the Swiss economy

This content was published on Sep 8, 2025 On August 1, US President Donald Trump announced a tariff of 39% for Switzerland. The effects are slowly becoming visible.

Foreign policy looms large as Swiss parliament begins autumn session

This content was published on Sep 8, 2025 Parliament will open its autumn session on September 8. Foreign policy and geopolitics are set to dominate the agenda.

Swiss worried by world under Trump, says poll

This content was published on Sep 7, 2025 The Swiss are worried about the return of the law of the strongest and want to see a firmer stance taken by the authorities, according to an SBC opinion poll.

Opinion

The trade agreement between India and EFTA countries comes just at the right time

This content was published on Sep 8, 2025 The new trade agreement between India and EFTA countries, of which Switzerland is part, is more than a trade deal argues economist Saon Ray.

Swiss-Kenyan filmmaker sets lo-fi love story in hi-tech future

This content was published on Sep 7, 2025 Damien Hauser’s ‘Memory of Princess Mumbi’ awed audiences at the Venice Film Festival by exploring the ethical and creative tensions of using AI in cinema.

How Switzerland became the ‘motherland of minigolf’

This content was published on Sep 6, 2025 Why was minigolf standardised in Switzerland, and how did it then conquer the country?

The Swiss and their gold Vrenelis, an enduring love affair

This content was published on Aug 30, 2025 The minting of a new coin generated enormous interest but turned into an online fiasco.

A man photographing a group of 3 women and 1 man standing in front of stone houses

Australian descendants of Swiss emigrants untangle their origins

This content was published on Aug 31, 2025 Follow Juliette Buchanan as she uncovers her Swiss roots in Verzasca Valley and reconnects with long-lost relatives.

Swiss wrestlers from abroad are proud of their tradition

This content was published on Aug 29, 2025 Six Swiss expats from North America are heading to Mollis in canton Glarus, for the 2025 Federal Wrestling and Alpine Games Festival (Schwingfest).

Democratic din: voters to decide fate of leaf blowers in Zurich

This content was published on Aug 28, 2025 In Switzerland’s biggest city, the ‘world’s most notorious power tool’ is facing a public ballot.

Ups and downs: a first taste of competitive Swiss flag throwing

This content was published on Aug 23, 2025 Alexander, 15, takes part in his first competition for flag-throwing, one of four Swiss living traditions.

A baby yawns into its hand. It is wrapped in a teal blanket with a blue knitted hat on its head with a white flower and red trim. An adult’s arm can be seen cradling the child and another adult’s hand is touching its head.

How Switzerland deals with potentially problematic first names

This content was published on Aug 17, 2025 In Germany, a newborn is to be given the name Yahya Sinwar – like the former Hamas leader. Would this be possible in Switzerland?

In Focus

Switzerland: the land of cooperatives

The cooperative business model not only permeates the Swiss economy, but also forms the roots of its politics.

Why melting glaciers affect us all

Alpine glaciers could disappear by the end of the century. The consequences will be felt not only in the Swiss Alps but all over the planet.

Need a diplomatic messenger? Switzerland is eager to help

Swiss diplomacy has a long-standing tradition of trying to talk to all sides “to build trust”. 

How Switzerland is managing foreign aid at a time of global upheaval

Switzerland, like other rich nations, is grappling with a shrinking foreign aid budget, as the war in Ukraine forces a reset in its priorities.

Moldova: A small neutral country at the crossroads between the EU and Russia

Switzerland is committed to democracy education and the integration of Ukrainians in Moldova.

What does the future hold for Swiss neutrality?

Switzerland is grappling with a key question: should it follow a path of openness or isolationism?

Sister republics: Switzerland and the US

The US and Switzerland were known as “sister republics”. Explore the links that still bind these two very dissimilar countries.

Swiss federal votes on September 22, 2024

Biodiversity and pensions are on the agenda for the federal votes on September 22.

Taiwan: a model democracy

Taiwan has developed into an exemplary democracy. This can be seen in schools as well as in election campaigns – despite or because of its precarious status.

Swiss federal votes on June 9

Two initiatives aimed at stemming healthcare costs took centre stage when voters went to the polls on June 9.

illustration depicting federal voting in Switzerland.

Federal votes on March 3, 2024

Pension reform is once again at the heart of Swiss politics. On March 3, voters will decide on two people’s initiatives from opposing camps.

The key ingredients of the Swiss financial sector

Switzerland’s fabled financial sector is made up of several crucial elements.

illustration: sport washing the world cup

Sportswashing the World Cup from Geneva

This three-part investigation shows the lengths to which Qatar went to whitewash its reputation and the role Geneva played in this marketing stunt.

The ethics of artificial intelligence

The challenges are immense for Switzerland, which is one of the leading developers of artificial intelligence (AI).

Important members of the Swiss-Kosovan diaspora

Kosovo in Switzerland, Switzerland in Kosovo

The two small mountain countries are linked by a dense network of relationships: political, economic, historical, but above all human.

The Swiss Abroad have less trust in Swiss politics, says poll

This content was published on Sep 10, 2025 A major SBC opinion poll shows that satisfaction is high among the Swiss Abroad but there is criticism regarding politics and the welfare state.

Swiss worried by world under Trump, says poll

Switzerland’s mood barometer reveals high satisfaction but cracks in unity

This content was published on Sep 4, 2025 The world has become gloomier lately. But one thing has remained remarkably constant: the Swiss population’s satisfaction with their lives.

Does your country of residence offer an e-ID?

Switzerland is voting on a new e-ID system. Has your country of residence already introduced one? And does it make your life easier?

Join the discussion

Aug 15, 2025

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Worldwide curry: a Bengali artist spans East and West via Switzerland

This content was published on Jul 20, 2025 Since moving to Switzerland in 2018, Ishita Chakraborty has deepened the scope of her work, dissolving geographical and conceptual borders from India to Brazil.

A wooden black king stands upright, while a white king lies overturned on a chequered chessboard

One against the other: zero-sum thinking can be found on both the political left and right

This content was published on Jun 3, 2025 A study from the University of Basel shows that zero-sum thinking can be found among supporters of both left-wing and right-wing parties.

A citizen on polling duty directs the voters at the polling station

Almost half of Swiss citizens are open to holding political office

This content was published on May 20, 2025 Would you consider holding political office? Nearly half of Swiss citizens would, according to a study by the University of Basel.

People are walking along a bridge at sunset.

How are you, Switzerland? Let us know in our 2025 survey

This content was published on May 15, 2025 We want to hear more about our readers’ daily concerns and thoughts on major issues. Take part in our survey and share your views!

People walking along the lake in Lucerne.

Honesty over success: the true values of the Swiss population

This content was published on May 12, 2025 Is honesty more important for a satisfied life than success? Yes, according to a major survey by the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation.

Wisekey CEO Carlos Moreira has a vision for Swiss satellites

Swiss army funds sovereign satellite network scheme

This content was published on May 5, 2025 Swiss defence ministry funds domestic satellites with eye on sovereign communications network.

How should Switzerland respond to the US tariffs?

This content was published on Apr 12, 2025 After US President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs on goods imported into the US on April 2, we wanted to hear your thoughts on how Switzerland should respond.

Martin Pfister und Markus Ritter mit Blumen

Who will be the next Swiss government minister?

This content was published on Mar 6, 2025 The vote to decide Viola Amherd’s successor in the Federal Council – Martin Pfister or Markus Ritter – is set for March 12, but the ‘dialogue’ community appears to have already made up its mind.

Are the super-rich a threat to democracy?

This content was published on Feb 20, 2025 A non-representative survey reveals that approximately nine out of ten users (87%) of the “dialogue” community perceive the super-rich as a threat to democracy.

Federal Councillor Viola Amherd leaves the conference hall after announcing her resignation during a media conference,

Is the job of Swiss government minister too complex and ‘politically exposed’?

This content was published on Feb 5, 2025 The position of Swiss government minister seems to have lost its shine – that is according to a non-representative survey of the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation (SBC)’s “dialogue” community.

Are young women and men in Switzerland drifting apart?

This content was published on Feb 3, 2025 Political views of young women and men are drifting apart – a phenomenon that can be observed around the world.

a girl holds up a sign with "girl power" written on it,

Are initiatives to combat gender-based violence having an impact?

This content was published on Nov 29, 2024 Authorities and civil society are looking for ways to deal with gender-based violence. Are these initiatives having an impact? Join the discussion.

The Swiss have embraced AI at record speed

This content was published on Nov 21, 2024 A new study shows that half of the Swiss population uses AI but the technology is also increasing digital inequality.

Woman sitting looking over the Aletsch glacier

Most Swiss doubt politicians’ ability to deal with climate change

This content was published on Nov 18, 2024 Two-thirds of Swiss believe global warming is a serious problem. However, only about a third thinks Swiss politicians can take sufficient measures on the issue.

Few people are sitting on the benches in a catholic church.

Poll finds over half of Swiss residents don’t believe in God

This content was published on Nov 15, 2024 More than half of people in Switzerland who took part in a recent survey say they do not believe in God.

Hard drugs: does prohibition sometimes do more harm than good?

This content was published on Nov 1, 2024 How can the growing consumption of crack cocaine in Switzerland be tackled? And what support can be provided to addicts? Join in the discussion!