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Visiting the Rigi used to make people ill – why?

Tourists on the Rigi, shown on a postcard from 1910.

Around a century ago, visitors to the famous Rigi mountain regularly complained of diarrhoea and vomiting. Was it mountain sickness – or something more?

By Adi Kälin

King Albert I enjoyed climbing in the Swiss Alps, where he went almost every year. The picture was coloured using AI by the National Museum.

History

King Albert I: the mountaineering monarch

By Michael van Orsouw

Culture

How Queen Victoria transformed the Swiss tourism industry

By Thomas Stephens

Demographics

Did you immigrate to Switzerland? What are your experiences?

By Pauline Turuban

New start for the Council of the Swiss Abroad

Claudine Morier, Rolf Blaser, Simone Höch and Pascal Méan (left to right) are among the new delegates to the parliament of the Swiss Abroad.

This content was published on Aug 22, 2025 The first SwissCommunity Days mark the start of a new legislative period for the Council of the Swiss Abroad. E-voting is at the heart of the demands.

Ups and downs: a boy’s 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.

Why bird flu could threaten traditional Swiss cheeses

This content was published on Aug 22, 2025 Switzerland’s cows have dodged the global H5N1 bird flu so far. But if it hits dairy herds, the country’s iconic cheeses could be at risk.

The week in Switzerland

This content was published on Aug 23, 2025 Welcome to our selection of some of the biggest – and most colourful – stories in Switzerland over the past seven days.

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.

the federal parliament building in Bern.

‘SwissCommunity Days’ welcomes new faces of Council of the Swiss Abroad

This content was published on Aug 21, 2025 This weekend the new Council of the Swiss Abroad (CSA) is holding its inaugural meeting at the Federal Palace in Bern as part of the SwissCommunity Days event.

extreme heat work health. Construction worker Justino cools off during a heat wave in Texas.

Too hot to work? Extreme heat endangers billions of workers

This content was published on Aug 22, 2025 Billions of workers face heat stress, illness and lost income as global temperatures climb, warns a WHO-WMO joint report.

Geopolitics

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

Too hot to work? Extreme heat endangers billions of workers

Inside Geneva’s Summer Profiles: the Red Cross Museum

The Place des Nations square opposite the UN headquarters in Geneva often hosts events and political demos. In this photo, Russians protest against the war in Ukraine, March 2025.

Egyptian, Chinese and Russian dissidents tracked and threatened in Switzerland

Egyptian repression targets journalist even in exile

Lobbyists and oil-producers blamed for failure of Geneva plastics treaty

Paradeplatz Square with the headquarters of Credit Suisse, center, pictured on April 11, 2018. (KEYSTONE/Gaetan Bally)

‘Luck running out’ for Swiss economy as growth slows ahead of US tariff hit

Dmitry Muratov: ‘I’m not afraid to live without hope’

Women of the Helsinki Movement

Trump’s tariffs expose weakness of Switzerland’s economic independence

Switzerland remains under economic pressure from the United States following the announcement of the so-called "Liberation Day".

How Trump is manoeuvring Switzerland closer to the EU

Taiwan is voting to restart a nuclear power plant – what’s at stake?

What do 39% US tariffs mean for the Swiss economy?

Jackie Chan will receive a honour Pardo prize for his career at Locarno. The festival will screen some early Jackie Chan films, like "Project A" (1983), pictured above with Chan in the center.

How the Locarno Film Festival brought Chinese films to the West

family Waser produces "Niederbauer" alpine cheese

Are EU inspectors headed for Swiss farms?

Middle East crisis

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.

A Palestinian flag flutters amid the ruins of buildings in Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip on March 4, 2025, amid the ongoing truce between Israel and Hamas.

Why Switzerland doesn’t recognise Palestine as a state

This content was published on Aug 6, 2025 Around 150 countries – or three-quarters of UN member states – recognise Palestinian statehood. Switzerland, for various reasons, is not one of them.

Two-state solution to establish lasting peace, Switzerland

Two-state solution to Middle East peace: Swiss diplomat

This content was published on Jul 30, 2025 Switzerland reiterates importance of two-state solution in Middle East.

Israelis in Switzerland appeal to Swiss Foreign Minister

This content was published on Jul 29, 2025 Israeli expats in Switzerland urge Swiss Foreign Minister to act for peace in Gaza.

Lauber and the UN deplore US sanctions against Albanese

Swiss UN ambassador condemns US sanctions against Albanese

This content was published on Jul 10, 2025 Swiss UN Ambassador Jürg Lauber regrets US sanctions on the rapporteur on the Palestinian territories, Francesca Albanese.

Swiss embassy in Tehran re-opens

This content was published on Jul 6, 2025 The Swiss embassy in Tehran re-opened on Sunday after being closed on June 20 owing to the unstable situation in the country.

Swiss government orders end to Gaza Humanitarian Foundation in Geneva

This content was published on Jul 2, 2025 Swiss authorities dissolve US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation in Geneva.

UN expert accuses Glencore of complicity with Israel

This content was published on Jul 1, 2025 The UN Special Rapporteur on the Palestinian Territories has accused Zug-based Glencore of profiting from an Israeli economy that has become “an economy of genocide”.

UN Special Rapporteur appears in Bern despite university cancellation

Palestine: UN Special Rapporteur speaks in Bern despite university cancellation

This content was published on Jul 1, 2025 UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese appeared at a panel discussion on Palestine in Bern on Monday evening.

Palestine march prevented at Switzerland-Israel basketball match

Palestine demo broken up at Israel-Switzerland basketball match

This content was published on Jun 29, 2025 Around 150 pro-Palestine activists tried to force their way into Switzerland’s match against Israel at the U-19 World Cup in Lausanne.

Global trade war

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.

US duties: Bolton, Switzerland must hold and wait

Patience key in Swiss-US tariff dispute: John Bolton

This content was published on Aug 21, 2025 Switzerland should grit its teeth and wait over tariffs, says former US National Security Advisor John Bolton.

The SNB is walking a tightrope over tariffs and inflation

Swiss central bank urged to tread carefully over tariffs

This content was published on Aug 20, 2025 The SNB shouldn’t seek to soften the impact of US tariffs through monetary-policy channels, according to a group of economists.

Swiss brands seek a response to customs duties

Trump tariffs: Swiss brands struggle to adapt to 39% tariff

This content was published on Aug 18, 2025 Swiss brands like Victorinox, the manufacturer of the iconic pocket knife, are struggling to adapt to the 39% tariff imposed by the United States on imports of Swiss goods.

Trump made direct financial demands during call with Swiss president

This content was published on Aug 17, 2025 During the telephone call between Karin Keller-Sutter and Donald Trump on July 31, Trump demanded direct payments from Switzerland, according to an investigation by SonntagsBlick.

Customs duties threaten 100,000 jobs in Switzerland

US tariffs putting 100,000 jobs at risk in Switzerland

This content was published on Aug 16, 2025 US tariffs of 39% on Swiss imports will directly affect 100,000 jobs, mainly in the watchmaking, machinery, metals, and food industries, economiesuisse warns.

‘Luck running out’ for Swiss economy as growth slows ahead of US tariff hit

This content was published on Aug 15, 2025 Swiss GDP only expanded by 0.1% in second quarter, adding to pressure on central bank to return to negative interest rates.

Lindt & Sprüngli is reportedly considering production of Easter bunnies in the USA

Lindt & Sprüngli reportedly considering shifting Easter bunny production to US

This content was published on Aug 15, 2025 Swiss chocolate manufacturer Lindt & Sprüngli could relocate the production of its gold-wrapped Easter bunnies to the US in order to circumvent the import tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.

Population does not want to make any concessions to the USA, according to survey

US tariffs: most Swiss rule out making future concessions, survey reveals

This content was published on Aug 13, 2025 According to a survey published on Wednesday, most Swiss residents are against offering concessions to the US in the current tariff dispute.

Trump’s tariffs expose weakness of Switzerland’s economic independence

This content was published on Aug 12, 2025 Officials worry that Switzerland’s historic strengths have become liabilities in an age of trade wars.

How Trump is manoeuvring Switzerland closer to the EU

This content was published on Aug 8, 2025 The steep US tariffs of 39% have sent shockwaves through Switzerland. They give a boost to those who advocate closer ties with the EU.

What do 39% US tariffs mean for the Swiss economy?

This content was published on Aug 7, 2025 US tariffs of 39% on Swiss imports came into force on Thursday morning – the blow to Swiss exporters, jobs, and prosperity could be harsh.

US tariffs in force for Switzerland - Federal Council to provide information this afternoon

US tariffs of 39% come into force for Switzerland

This content was published on Aug 7, 2025 US tariffs of 39% on Swiss exports formally came into force on Thursday morning, despite last-minute talks.

How pharma became Switzerland’s Achilles heel in US trade talks

This content was published on Aug 6, 2025 The pharmaceutical industry’s strength has made it a key vulnerability for Switzerland in trade talks with the US.

Are you noticing or anticipating any changes in your life as a result of the tariffs introduced by US President Donald Trump?

How do you think your life could be impacted by the US tariff policy? Let us know.

Join the discussion

Aug 5, 2025

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Swiss Abroad

The Council of the Swiss Abroad meets in Bern

New start for the Council of the Swiss Abroad

Tessa Huber wants to reduce red tape for young Swiss Abroad

September 28 vote: Swiss back e-ID but Swiss Abroad remain cautious

‘SwissCommunity Days’ welcomes new faces of Council of the Swiss Abroad

All you need to know about the September 28 national vote

Will Switzerland finally do away with imputed rental-value tax on homeowners?

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

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

Ups and downs: a boy’s 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.

Mennonite movement turns 500 in Zurich, where it all began

This content was published on Jun 28, 2025 On its 500th anniversary, the worldwide Mennonite movement remembers its Swiss roots.

Velcro: how space race helped Swiss invention catch on

This content was published on Jun 21, 2025 Swiss engineer George de Mestral patented Velcro in the 1950s. But it had to overcome initial scepticism.

Cats climbing the cat ladders erected on the façade of a house in Bern

What a love of cat ladders says about the Swiss

This content was published on Jun 14, 2025 Visitors to Bern are often surprised by the number and variety of cat ladders snaking their way up houses.

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

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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.

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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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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.

Are you noticing or anticipating any changes in your life as a result of the tariffs introduced by US President Donald Trump?

How do you think your life could be impacted by the US tariff policy? Let us know.

Join the discussion

Aug 5, 2025

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Watch now

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?

What exactly was signed in Helsinki in August 1975?

Stabilising permafrost in the Swiss Alps

Permafrost thawing: protecting endangered mountain infrastructure in the Swiss Alps

The death penalty around the world in 90 seconds

Is it a good idea to let AI vote?

Extreme heat and drought are Switzerland’s top climate change risks

Locarno City Archives, Rodolfo Huber, Locarno Pact centenary

How Locarno became the ‘city of peace’

Journalist Anand Chandrasekhar sitting at a table, holding up a picture of a chocolate bar.

Truth or tale: is Swiss chocolate tainted by child labour?

Photo of a woman in front of a screen with colourful background.

What you didn’t know about psychiatry and Switzerland

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External Content

Bloomberg Business

This content was published on Aug 23, 2025 – 11:26

HSBC’s Swiss Bank Said to Exit 1,000 Mideast Clients Amid Revamp

This content was published on Aug 23, 2025 – 02:36

Dow Hits Record, Bonds Jump as Powell Signals Cut: Markets Wrap

This content was published on Aug 21, 2025 – 22:20

Stock Slide Deepens Before Powell as Yields Rise: Markets Wrap

This content was published on Aug 21, 2025 – 18:58

SNB’s Martin Says Credit Demand Shifting to Swiss-Focused Banks

This content was published on Aug 21, 2025 – 16:44

SMG Said to Eye $1.2 Billion Zurich IPO as Soon as Next Month

This content was published on Aug 21, 2025 – 12:54

Gold and Watches Boost Swiss Exports to US Before 39% Tariff

This content was published on Aug 21, 2025 – 11:21

Swiss Banker Bonus Cap Proposal Watered Down in Parliament

This content was published on Aug 21, 2025 – 09:54

Switzerland’s Gold Export Surge Highlights Its US Trade Dilemma

This content was published on Aug 21, 2025 – 09:18

Swiss Watch Exports Bounce Back in July Ahead of US Tariffs

This content was published on Aug 21, 2025 – 08:14

Switzerland’s Rules-Based Diplomacy Clashes With Trump Dealmaking

This content was published on Aug 20, 2025 – 23:02

Stock Buyers Step In to Fuel Bounce From Lows: Markets Wrap

This content was published on Aug 20, 2025 – 10:29

Options Traders Position for Weaker Swiss Franc as Risks Linger

This content was published on Aug 19, 2025 – 22:35

Nvidia-Led Tech Slide Cracks Summer Calm in Stocks: Markets Wrap

This content was published on Aug 19, 2025 – 19:27

Switzerland Ready to Offer Putin Immunity as Part of Peace Talks

This content was published on Aug 19, 2025 – 18:00

SNB Shouldn’t Try to Mitigate US Tariff Effects, Economists Say

This content was published on Aug 19, 2025 – 15:00

How Pimco Outmaneuvered Apollo and KKR to Win $29 Billion Meta Deal

This content was published on Aug 19, 2025 – 09:31

Schroders Sees Private Equity Exit Strategies Reshaping Industry

This content was published on Aug 18, 2025 – 22:52

Wall Street Holds Its Breath Before Jackson Hole: Markets Wrap

This content was published on Aug 18, 2025 – 21:11

Glencore Seeks Incentives for $13 Billion Argentina Copper Mining Projects

This content was published on Aug 18, 2025 – 19:05

Switzerland’s M&A Deal Surge Leaves Rest of Europe Behind

Tessa Huber wants to reduce red tape for young Swiss Abroad

This content was published on Aug 22, 2025 Tessa Huber, a member of the Council of the Swiss Abroad, wants to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and get young Swiss Abroad more involved.

September 28 vote: Swiss back e-ID but Swiss Abroad remain cautious

This content was published on Aug 22, 2025 Electronic ID appeals to a large majority of Swiss, but the diaspora is more sceptical, according to the first poll ahead of the September 28 referendum.

The city of Lucerne: the flood of 2005 is among the worst natural disasters in recent history in Switzerland.

Is Switzerland’s natural disaster insurance a model for the world?

This content was published on Aug 21, 2025 The Swiss insurance system against natural hazards also offers cover in high-risk areas. A unique model that could inspire other countries.

View of the fjord and front of the Eqalorutsit Kangilliit Sermiat glacier in southern Greenland.

Fibre optics detect the invisible waves that melt Greenland’s ice sheet

This content was published on Aug 20, 2025 The breaking off of large chunks of ice from glaciers accelerates the melting of the Arctic ice sheet in Greenland. This has been measured for the first time by a research team using fibre optics.

Egyptian, Chinese and Russian dissidents tracked and threatened in Switzerland

This content was published on Aug 19, 2025 Repression by autocratic states abroad is also happening in Switzerland, and the human rights hub Geneva is particularly exposed to this threat.

Will Switzerland finally do away with imputed rental-value tax on homeowners?

This content was published on Aug 18, 2025 The Swiss imputed rental value system is complicated and provides opportunities for tax breaks. Citizens will vote on the issue on September 28.

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?

Swiss director Simon Edelstein’s triumphant return to Locarno, 50 years on

This content was published on Aug 16, 2025 This year the Locarno Film Festival paid homage to the influential Swiss director Simon Edelstein.

Dmitry Muratov: ‘I’m not afraid to live without hope’

This content was published on Aug 14, 2025 Dmitry Muratov, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and former editor-in-chief of the Russian newspaper Novaya Gazeta, talks to Swissinfo about truth in the era of digital autocracies.

When a US bomber crashed into Max Huber’s Zurich castle

This content was published on Aug 10, 2025 In July, 1944, a stricken American bomber crashed into a canton Zurich castle belonging to a notable Swiss figure – Red Cross president Max Huber.

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?

How the Locarno Film Festival brought Chinese films to the West

This content was published on Aug 7, 2025 Over the past 75 years, some pivotal Chinese films and filmmakers have had their first encounter with international critics at Locarno.

Michael Powell's "Peeping Tom" (1960) is probably the most well-known film among the selection curated for Locarno's retrospective this year.

Locarno Festival sheds light on an under-appreciated era of British cinema

This content was published on Aug 6, 2025 Films restored by the British and the Swiss film archives illuminate a period of national reconstruction and cultural transformation.

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.

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.

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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!

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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.

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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!

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Fighting paedophile crime: What is the right balance between prevention and punishment?

This content was published on Oct 25, 2024 To fight paedophilia-related crimes, vigilante justice can take on a radical form. Fair or foul?

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Cost-of-living crisis: only a minority of Swiss say they feel the pinch

This content was published on Oct 24, 2024 Around one-third of Swiss residents and the Swiss Abroad say their financial situation is a strain, while four out of five believe the wealth gap in Switzerland is too wide, a new survey shows.

Young person holding a cigarette in their hand.

New Swiss tobacco law: are minors sufficiently protected?

This content was published on Oct 3, 2024 Are minors in Switzerland sufficiently protected from the risks of tobacco consumption? Join the multilingual debate on “dialogue”!