Scandal, geese, and 2015 at a glance

Here are the stories we’re following the week of December 21:

This content was published on December 20, 2015 - 12:00

2 minutes

The downfall of a king?

On Monday, FIFA’s Ethics Commission is expected to deliver its verdict on suspended President Sepp Blatter and the head of European football Michel Platini, both suspected of illegal financial dealings over a $2 million payment in 2011. Blatter’s reign at the top of world football will in any case end on February 26 when FIFA elects a new president, but an adverse ruling against Platini could prematurely end his career in football administration.

Fine food

Also on Monday, dig into Swiss chef Anton Mosimann’s unique collection of historical cookbooks and menu cards, on display for the first time ever in Basel. Our image gallery will offer a glimpse into 500 years of cooking history that includes menus for the British Royal family, the first ever cookbook printed in German, and some notes on making jam by Nostradamus.

Sommaruga in Brussels

We’ll be reporting the news on Monday when outgoing Swiss president Simonetta Sommaruga meets with European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker in Brussels to discuss the implementation of Switzerland’s immigration initiative, which has been at an impasse for nearly a year. Sommaruga has said that the basis for a solution has been created, and the political will is present, but whether that will be enough to come to a decision remains to be seen.

Honk for geese

On Tuesday, join us for a feature on one of Switzerland’s rare goose farms. Geese provide the raw materials for many products that we find daily on our plates, backs and beds; yet they are often subjected to cruel handling, force-feeding and crowded conditions. Learn about the Swiss parties that are supporting better lives for geese.

Year in review

Sunshine, circuses, asylum centres and sports scandals – all will be featured in a Saturday photo gallery full of images that define the highs and lows of 2015 in Switzerland.

What you may have missed:

Fake snow use highlights water usage

This content was published on Dec 14, 2015 The ski region of Corviglia near St Moritz adds artificial snow to 80% of its slopes. Half of the water is taken from a newly built storage lake. The rest is pumped up from the valley. In Motta Naluns in the lower Engadine, saving water isn’t an issue either. On the contrary. Artificial snow makes…

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