Overall, with an average of four close friends per person, the Swiss are comparable to Americans and Germans, based on the first major survey of its kind in Switzerland released on Monday.
It’s often not easy to make friends in the Alpine nation, but once you do, the relationship is likely to be solid.
“It’s difficult to break into Swiss friendship circles, because they are relatively static and based on long-standing relationships,” note the authors.
Switzerland favours “homogeneous and lasting friendships”, which contributes to social cohesion. Countries such as Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands also show a similar profile.
The best places to make friends are at school and work (43.7%), through family and acquaintances (23.5%), then sport (10%). Online friendships account for less than 3% of friendships.
Almost three quarters of those surveyed are satisfied with their friendships. But half of them regret not having enough time to maintain them.
These are the findings of a survey of 3,000 people by the Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute on behalf of Swiss supermarket chain Migros.
Popular Stories
More
Life & Aging
Zurich: how the world capital of housing shortages is tackling the problem
In Switzerland more people are being referred to electrical therapies or psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Are there similar approaches where you live?
This content was published on
Misinformed stereotype or stark reality? Whichever way round it is, how to make friends with the Swiss is a topic for most expats.
Expats bemoan lack of dining options in Swiss cities
This content was published on
All four Swiss cities in the Expat City Ranking 2022 have gained places since last year – however, there’s still plenty of room for improvement.
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.