What are the global challenges facing Switzerland?

juerg.bigler@outlook.com 2024-04-26 17:40

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

In my understanding, neutrality does not mean not being allowed to have an opinion.

Neutralität bedeutet nach meinem Verständnis nicht, keine Meinung haben zu dürfen.

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2024-05-02 08:25

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@juerg.bigler@outlook.com

I agree with you. Do you think many people in Switzerland see it that way?

Ich bin mit Ihnen einverstanden. Glauben Sie, dass in der Schweiz viele das so sehen?

Sini Scha 2024-02-02 11:08

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

The question "What global challenges does Switzerland face?"

is of essential importance and deserves praise and recognition. This question is not only well thought out and sensibly formulated, but also goes far beyond the simple surface.

It covers various dimensions of the social, economic, moral, ethical and political spectrum,
moral, ethical and political spectrum.

The depth of this question lies not only in its formulation, but also in the breadth of the issues it touches on.

It goes beyond the obvious to consider the subtleties and sophistication hidden in the complex challenges of our globalized world.

At a time when the world is changing rapidly and new challenges are emerging, the question of global challenges plays a crucial role.

It is not just about the surface of things, but also about the profound impact these challenges could have on Switzerland.

The political circumstances in which this question is posed make it even more important.

Political decisions can shape the destiny of a country, and Switzerland is faced with the task of facing up to these challenges and taking appropriate action.

The question not only affects the present, but also has an impact on the present of tomorrow.

It requires not just a superficial consideration, but a thorough examination of the global trends, political developments and economic changes that could affect Switzerland.

The challenges facing Switzerland are complex.

They range from economic changes and global health crises to geopolitical tensions and environmental problems.

The question calls for these challenges to be understood in their entirety and for sustainable solutions to be found.
Overall, the question posed is not just a simple invitation to examine the current situation.

It is a call for comprehensive reflection on Switzerland's present in a constantly changing world.

It is an invitation to face up to the challenges, to think creatively and to find innovative ways to shape the future.

Die Frage "Welchen globalen Herausforderungen kommen auf die Schweiz zu?"

ist von essentieller Bedeutung und verdient Lob und Anerkennung. Diese Frage ist nicht nur gut durchdacht und sinnvoll formuliert, sondern reicht auch weit über die einfache Oberfläche hinaus.

Sie erstreckt sich über verschiedene Dimensionen des gesellschaftlichen, wirtschaftlichen,
moralischen, ethischen und politischen Spektrums.

Die Tiefe dieser Frage liegt nicht nur in ihrer Formulierung, sondern auch in der Breite der Themen, die sie berührt.

Sie geht über das Offensichtliche hinaus und berücksichtigt die Feinheiten und Raffinesse, die in den komplexen Herausforderungen unserer globalisierten Welt verborgen sind.

In einer Zeit, in der die Welt sich rasch verändert und neue Herausforderungen entstehen, spielt die Frage nach den globalen Herausforderungen eine entscheidende Rolle.

Es geht nicht nur um die Oberfläche der Dinge, sondern auch um die tiefgreifenden Auswirkungen, die diese Herausforderungen auf die Schweiz haben könnten.

Die politischen Umstände, unter denen diese Frage gestellt wird, machen sie noch bedeutender.

Politische Entscheidungen können das Schicksal eines Landes prägen, und die Schweiz steht vor der Aufgabe, sich diesen Herausforderungen zu stellen und entsprechende Wege einzuschlagen.

Die Frage berührt nicht nur die Gegenwart, sondern hat auch Auswirkungen auf die Gegenwart von morgen.

Sie erfordert nicht nur eine oberflächliche Betrachtung, sondern eine gründliche durchleuchten der globalen Trends, politischen Entwicklungen und wirtschaftlichen Veränderungen, die die Schweiz beeinflussen könnten.

Die Herausforderungen, vor denen die Schweiz steht, sind vielschichtig.

Sie reichen von wirtschaftlichen Veränderungen und globalen Gesundheitskrisen bis hin zu geopolitischen Spannungen und Umweltproblemen.

Die Frage fordert dazu auf, diese Herausforderungen in ihrer Gesamtheit zu verstehen und nachhaltige Lösungen zu finden.
Insgesamt ist die gestellte Frage nicht nur eine einfache Aufforderung zur Durchleuchtung der aktuellen Situation.

Sie ist ein Aufruf zur umfassenden Reflexion über die Gegenwart der Schweiz in einer sich ständig verändernden Welt.

Es ist eine Einladung, sich den Herausforderungen zu stellen, kreativ zu denken und innovative Wege zu finden, um die Zukunft zu gestalten.

Bernhard Meyer Nong Chok 2024-02-06 01:46

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Sini Scha

Did you write your report with AI?

Haben Sie Ihren Bericht mit KI. geschrieben?

Sini Scha 2024-01-26 19:27

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

Please read the text aloud, thank you!

Switzerland is facing considerable challenges, which have been exacerbated by several political decisions. The recognition of the Serbian province of Kosovo as an independent state has not only had a lasting impact on neutrality, but also on Switzerland's credibility, trust and image.

As a result of this step, Switzerland has not only lost its role as a political mediator, but has also lost political influence on the international stage in the long term.

The adoption of the sanctions imposed by the EU and Western countries against Russia has further weakened Switzerland's political position. Stubbornly clinging to neutrality, which no longer exists, seems pointless and unrealistic in view of these developments.

Switzerland is about to leave the political stage, as it can no longer play the role of a neutral mediator.
Overall, the current situation requires a rethink of Swiss foreign policy and an adjustment to the changed geopolitical realities.

Switzerland, which has lost its neutrality, is receiving the Ukrainian president in a gesture of support, but this has little influence in view of its political role.

The political situation in Ukraine points to an imminent military defeat, and Switzerland's role in the discussions appears to be irrelevant in view of Russia's central role!

The Ukrainian president's idea of discussing a peace plan comes too late, as Ukraine's military defeat is drawing ever closer in small steps. Russian decision-makers are no longer willing to trust the West, which also underlines Switzerland's political secondary role in this context.

Overall, it is clear that political Switzerland has little influence in these matters and that the geopolitical realities of the West dominate the situation. Nevertheless, with the adopted sanctions against Russia, Switzerland is part of this new situation with an uncertain outcome and will remain affected in the long term.

Events will follow that Switzerland, which is no longer neutral, will have to face up to. The decisive factor will be how Switzerland shapes its position on the international stage in the future and whether it will realign its political principles - which does not seem likely at present.

Bitte: Text laut lesen, Danke!

Die Schweiz steht vor erheblichen Herausforderungen, die durch mehrere politische Entscheidungen verschärft wurden. Die Anerkennung der serbischen Provinz Kosovo als unabhängiger Staat hat nicht nur die Neutralität, sondern auch die Glaubwürdigkeit, das Vertrauen und das Image der Schweiz nachhaltig beeinträchtigt.

Durch diesen Schritt hat die Schweiz nicht nur ihre politische Vermittlungsrolle verloren, sondern auch langfristig an politischem Einfluss auf der internationalen Bühne eingebüßt.

Die Übernahme der von der EU und den westlichen Ländern ausgesprochenen Sanktionen gegen Russland hat die politische Position der Schweiz weiter geschwächt. Das sture Festhalten an der Neutralität die es nicht mehr gibt erscheint angesichts dieser Entwicklungen sinnlos und realitätsfremd.

Die Schweiz steht vor einem Abschied von der politischen Bühne, da sie nicht mehr die Rolle eines neutralen Vermittlers spielen kann.
Insgesamt erfordert die aktuelle Situation ein Umdenken in der schweizerischen Außenpolitik und eine Anpassung an die veränderten geopolitischen Realitäten.

Die Schweiz, die ihre Neutralität verloren hat, empfängt den ukrainischen Präsidenten in einer Geste der Unterstützung, die jedoch angesichts ihrer politischen neben rollen wenig Einfluss hat.

Die politische Lage in der Ukraine deutet auf eine bevorstehende militärische Niederlage hin, und die Rolle der Schweiz in den Diskussionen erscheint angesichts der zentralen Rolle Russlands als nicht relevant zu sein!

Die Idee des ukrainischen Präsidenten, einen Friedensplan zu diskutieren, kommt zu spät, da die militärische Niederlage der Ukraine in kleinen Schritten immer näher rückt. Die russischen Entscheidungsträger sind nicht mehr bereit, dem Westen zu vertrauen, was auch die politische neben Rolle der Schweiz in diesem Kontext unterstreicht.

Insgesamt zeigt sich, dass die politische Schweiz in diesen Angelegenheiten wenig Einfluss hat und die geopolitischen Realitäten des Westens die Situation dominieren. Dennoch ist die Schweiz mit den übernommenen Sanktionen gegen Russland Teil dieser neuen Situation mit ungewissem Ausgang und wird langfristig betroffen bleiben.

Es folgen Ereignisse, denen sich die nicht mehr neutrale Schweiz stellen muss. Entscheidend wird sein, wie die Schweiz in Zukunft ihre Position auf der internationalen Bühne gestaltet und ob sie ihre politischen Prinzipien neu ausrichten wird – was derzeit nicht wahrscheinlich erscheint.

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2024-01-30 13:44

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Sini Scha

Hi Sinisa, this argument is mainly heard from Russia, which is unhappy that Switzerland is supporting the EU sanctions. Otherwise, however, the country's neutrality is widely accepted. As far as a country's role on the international stage is concerned, several factors always come into play - and usually only become apparent in the long term.

Hallo Sinisa, dieses Argument hört man vor allem aus Russland, das unglücklich darüber ist, dass die Schweiz die EU-Sanktionen mitträgt. Ansonsten ist aber die Neutralität des Landes weitherum akzeptiert. Was die Rolle eines Landes auf der internationalen Bühne angeht, spielen immer mehrere Faktoren rein - und zeigt sich meist erst in der langen Frist.

Anonymous 2024-02-08 20:18

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Sini Scha

You seem to be very pro-Putin. Why don't you emigrate to Russia? We don't need Putin agents in Switzerland.

Sie scheinen sehr Putin-freundlich gesinnt zu sein. Warum wandern Sie nicht nach Russland aus? Wir brauchen keine Putin-Agenten in der Schweiz.

HeinzIgnatius 2024-01-24 06:48

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The "famous" neutrality was "given" to Switzerland at the Congress of Vienna in 1815. Switzerland did not "take" it. Arms production is at odds with "our" neutrality. But who doesn't enjoy the "Füüfer und Weggli" concept?

The largest arms exporters (weapons of war) are the USA 54 %, Belgium 6 %, France 5 %, Germany 4 %, Great Britain 3 %, Switzerland 2 %, Norway 2 %, Italy 2 %, Canada 2 %.

Die “berühmte” Neutralität wurde der Schweiz am Wiener Kongress von 1815 “gegeben”. Die Schweiz hat sie nicht “genommen”. Im Widerspruch zu “unserer” Neutralität steht die Waffenproduktion. Aber wer genießt nicht das „Füüfer und Weggli” Konzept?

Die größten Waffenexporteure (Kriegswaffen) sind USA 54 %, Belgien 6 %, Frankreich 5 %, Deutschland 4 %, Großbritannien 3 %, Schweiz 2 %, Norwegen 2 %, Italien 2 %, Kanada 2 %.

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2024-01-24 09:58

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@HeinzIgnatius

Thank you, but your information is incomplete: Russia, for example, is the second-largest arms exporter, with China, South Korea and Israel also in the top 10.
Incidentally, it may seem strange that a neutral country also exports weapons. But the concept of armed neutrality presupposes an arms industry. This has developed since the industrialization of the country - and yes, the Congress of Vienna was essential for Switzerland to become what it is today!

Danke, allerdings sind Ihre Angaben lückenhaft: Russland beispielsweise ist der zweitgrösste Waffenexporteur, es wären noch China, Südkorea und Israel unter den Top 10 zu nennen.
Im Übrigen mag es befremden, dass ein neutrales Land auch Waffen exportiert. Aber das Konzept der bewaffneten Neutralität setzt eine Waffenindustrie voraus. Das hat sich über seit der Industrialisierung des Landes entwickelt - und ja, der Wiener Kongress war essentiell dafür, dass die Schweiz so wurde, wie sie heute ist!

Gaz11 2023-12-16 03:53

Inability to fully address the need to move to world best practise planning regime, regardless of the difficulty to implement said standards

train man 2023-11-15 20:40

Huge increase of population throughout the years.

rafaeltmoros@gmail.com 2023-10-28 05:10

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With what is happening in Palestine between the three monotheistic religions and the parody of human rights and democracy, which in reality is stealing the resources of the countries, which causes it is to run away to live on another planet that has no gods, no self-chosen, no oil, because they quickly put military and terrorist bases.

Con lo que está ocurriendo en Palestina entre las tres religiones monoteístas y la parodia de los derechos humanos y la democracia, que en realidad es robarse los recursos de los países, lo que lo provoca es salir corriendo a vivir en otra planeta que no tenga dioses, ni auto elegidos, ni petróleo, porque rápido le ponen bases militares y terroristas

Annanna 2023-10-26 05:09

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I do not understand the political system in Switzerland. My great-grandparents were Swiss, war refugees in Chile, I don't understand why my grandparents had to ask for asylum in another continent.

No comprendo el sistema político de Suiza. Mis bis-abuelos eran suizos, refugiados de guerra en Chile.No comprendo por qué mis abuelos tuvieron que pedir asilo en otro continente

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2023-11-08 16:44

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Annanna

An exciting question. Do you know exactly where your great-grandparents came from? And at what time?

Eine spannende Frage. Wissen Sie, woher Ihre Urgrosseltern genau kamen? Und zu welcher Zeit?

Dansarki 2023-10-22 12:30

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Continuing the policy of low taxes makes us look like a troublesome leech in Europe: we get their companies and then their professionals. For this, the EU cannot roll out a red carpet for us...

Die Fortsetzung der Politik der tiefen Steuern lässt uns in Europa aussehen wie ein lästiger Blutsauger: Wir holen ihre Firmen und danach auch noch ihre Fachleute. Dafür kann uns die EU keinen roten Teppich ausrollen...

ProperD 2023-10-20 10:17

Switzerland's ability to deal with global challenges will depend on their integrity and strength in not following the dictates of the globalists i.e the elites. The world is shifting. The west will no longer hold the power, decision making, the finances, the most productive people in the world. That's going to Eurasia and eastern countries. If Switzerland wants to play an important role and be recognized as a neutral country, the country must be willing to stand for justice and against various ideologies put forth by non-elected officials like the WHO and WEF.

Swiss leaders will need the courage (like the prime minister of Hungary) to do what's right for Switzerland and not for globalists who are intent on taking each country and making them a vassal of one-entity. Switzerland must "look truth in the face" and accept that the global world is shifting and go with "what is right and good" and work with "whomever in the world" is trying to do the same. Not listen to those who are foolishly trying to ruin this world. This is not nor shall it be a unipolar world. If Switzerland can see the changes manifesting before us and willing to intelligently adapt to those changes.....then Switzerland will conquer each global challenge as it comes along. If Switzerland refuses to do this...the country will simply become a blimp on the world map.

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2023-10-30 11:15

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@ProperD

The discourse about the supposedly "unipolar world" is nothing more than a disguised criticism of the West, which has been used strategically by Russia since the invasion of Ukraine to forge alliances (and which is often taken up by self-proclaimed "illiberal democrats" for their own self-interest).
In terms of content, this has always been wrong: economically, politically and also militarily, the USA has never been so strong that it could single-handedly define the course of history. But the image of the enemy must be painted as overpowering as possible so that the greatest possible mobilization can be formed against it.
Incidentally, thinking in terms of poles and great powers is (also) the result of the school of realism in political science, which was prominent during the Cold War and is viewed far more critically today.

Der Diskurs über die angeblich "unipolare Welt" ist nichts anderes als eine getarnte Westkritik, der von Russland seit dem Überfall auf die Ukraine strategisch eingesetzt wird, um Bündnisse zu schmieden (und die aus Eigennutz gerne von selbsternannten "illiberalen Demokraten" aufgegriffen wird).
Inhaltlich war das schon immer falsch: Wirtschaftlich, politisch und auch militärisch waren die USA nie so stark, dass sie eigenhändig den Lauf der Geschichte definieren konnten. Aber man muss das Feindbild möglichst übermächtig zeichnen, damit eine möglichst grosse Mobilisierung dagegen geformt werden kann.
Das Denken in Polen und Grossmächten ist übrigens (auch) Resultat der Schule des Realismus in den Politikwissenschaften, die während dem Kalten Krieg prominent war und heute weitaus kritischer betrachtet wird.

Andreas Marolf 2023-10-03 15:42

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Switzerland really comes across as a cherry picker. We should really get serious about the negotiations in order to at least finally get the framework agreement with the EU wrapped up. The bilateral agreements are gradually expiring and, according to the EU, will no longer be extended. Then it will become more and more difficult on all levels between the EU and Switzerland.

Die Schweiz kommt wirklich als Rosinenpickerin rüber. Man sollte sich wirklich ernsthaft in die Verhandlungen begeben um zumindest das Rahmenabkommen mit der EU endlich in trockene Tücher zu bekommen. Die bilateralen Verträge laufen nämlich nach und nach aus und werden nach Aussage der EU nicht mehr verlängert. Dann wird es auf allen Ebenen immer schwieriger werden zwischen der EU und der Schweiz.

Bernhard Meyer Nong Chok 2024-02-06 01:52

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Andreas Marolf

A normal free trade agreement is enough!

Ein ganz normales Freihandelsabkommen genügt!

old man 2023-10-02 22:45

In the next two years, food independence will become our biggest concern.

UrsAntonLoepfe 2023-09-25 15:18

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

According to World Overexploitation Day (https://www.overshootday.org/newsroom/country-overshoot-days/), Switzerland will have used up its annual global allocation of resources by May 13, 2023. From this day on, we are overexploiting our natural resources.
We should urgently conduct a dialogue about how we as Swiss could solve this problem.

Gemäss Welt Überlastungstag (https://www.overshootday.org/newsroom/country-overshoot-days/) hat die Schweiz die ihr jährlich global zustehenden Ressourcen am 13. Mai 2023 aufgebraucht. Ab diesem Tag betreiben wir Raubbau an unseren Lewbensgrundlagen.
Wir sollten dringenst einen Dialog darüber führen, wie wir als Schweizer dieses Problem lösen könnten.

Eltjon Sulaj 2023-09-24 08:49

On the international level Switzerland I would say is not facing much different challenges than it's close European neighbors. Access to energy resources, increased refugee flows, climate change, war in Ukraine are some of the main issues that Switzerland has to deal with. Regarding energy I think the country is doing well with it's hydroelectric power supply. Supplementing it with other forms of renewable energy would help to further safeguard it's sufficiency. Dealing with the refugee crisis I think should be handled in cooperation with the rest of European countries. Individual approach has shown so far that it's not working. The main cause should be tackled and that is to help improve the conditions for these people in the countries of origin. For centuries the west in one or another way has been exploiting the global south in order to increase it's own affluence so we have a historical duty to help restore their local ecosystems. Difficult message to sell to the voters, but unavoidable in my opinion. Otherwise people will never stop trying to escape hunger and violence. Climate crisis is strongly intertwined with the refugee crisis and it contributes to it. This is a undoubtedly a global concern and demands nothing less than cooperation in planetary scale. Regarding the war in Ukraine and the Swiss peculiarity of neutrality I would suggest that all the country has to do is reassure the west alliance that it stands firm in it's support for the imposed sanctions. Swiss banks should then figure out how to deal with the damage of losing the reputation of a safe heaven for any kind of ambiguous fortune, but that would definitely add to the long term sustainability of the sector.

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2023-09-25 09:55

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Eltjon Sulaj

Thank you for your contribution! If I understand you correctly, you think that Switzerland should coordinate more with other countries. Some people in Switzerland fear that the neutrality of the country would be endangered because of this. Do you also see it that way?

Danke für Ihren Beitrag! Wenn ich Sie richtig verstehe, dann sollte die Schweiz Ihrer Meinung nach sich stärker mit anderen Ländern absprechen. In der Schweiz befürchten manche, dass deswegen die Neutralität des Landes gefährdet wäre. Sehen Sie das auch so?

Eltjon Sulaj 2023-09-25 12:15

@Giannis Mavris

Thank you for coming back mr Giannis! I guess you are referring to the war in Ukraine and the geopolitical instability in general. In order for me to also understand it correctly. Is the neutrality itself the goal or the stability and safety of the country? Cooperating with other countries in the military level I don't dare to express an opinion. It's an issue with unpredictable repercassions. In relation to the economical sanctions on the other hand I would say that cooperation and choosing a side would be more wise. Times have changed and people look more critical on what someones stance means. People in the west fraction could possibly think that Switzerland with it's neutrality is benefiting from the measures other countries take. Then you run the risk of being dealt with suspicion and falling into isolation. Surving in a world with globalized economy while being in isolation and not having self-sufficiency is difficult to manage.

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2023-09-25 14:03

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Eltjon Sulaj

As far as sanctions are concerned, there is a certain discrepancy: Switzerland is regularly criticized for not doing enough - but so far it has adopted practically all EU sanctions packages. I think this is not really registered abroad. Domestically, it's more the banking and business location that is criticized - after all, Switzerland is a major economic hub.
Regarding your very smart question, "Is neutrality itself the goal or the stability and security of the country?" Neutrality is indeed an actual goal for many; after all, it is seen as part of the Swiss identity. And from that, many directly derive the country's stability and security. I don't agree with that: Because of our geography, we are integrated in a very secure and prosperous environment. If the country were elsewhere, we would be confronted with completely different challenges.
Finally, on military cooperation: Switzerland is tied to NATO through the Partnership for Piece program, and the government wants to intensify that in the wake of the war in Ukraine. The question is whether NATO wants the same - a neutral Switzerland, whose loyalty would be at least questionable in an emergency, poses serious questions for any military alliance...

Was die Sanktionen angeht sieht man eine gewisse Diskrepanz: Die Schweiz wird regelmässig kritisiert, nicht genug zu machen - allerdings hat sie bisher praktisch alle EU-Sanktionspakete übernommen. Ich denke das wird im Ausland teilweise nicht richtig registriert. Innenpolitisch wird mehr der Banken- und Wirtschaftsstandort kritisiert, immerhin ist die Schweiz eine bedeutende ökonomische Drehscheibe.
Zu Ihrer sehr schlauen Frage: "Ist die Neutralität selbst das Ziel oder die Stabilität und Sicherheit des Landes?" Die Neutralität ist für viele tatsächlich ein eigentliches Ziel, sie wird ja als Teil der schweizerischen Identität gesehen. Und davon leiten viele direkt die Stabilität und Sicherheit des Landes ab. Da bin ich nicht so einverstanden: Durch unsere Geografie sind wir in einem sehr sicheren und prosperierenden Umfeld eingebunden. Wäre das Land anderswo, wären wir mit ganz anderen Herausforderungen konfrontiert.
Abschliessend zur militärischen Zusammenarbeit: Die Schweiz ist durch das Programm "Partnership for Piece" an der NATO angebunden, die Regierung will das im Zuge des Krieges in der Ukraine noch intensivieren. Die Frage ist, ob die NATO das auch will - eine neutrale Schweiz, deren Loyalität im Ernstfall zumindest fraglich wäre, stellt jedes militärische Bündnis vor ernsten Fragen...

Lacroix Elena 2023-09-22 18:29

The following contribution has been automatically translated from FR.

Dependence on raw materials, the most important of which is food. The drastic reduction of water consumption for agricultural or industrial use, the effective limitation of population - Switzerland is not extensible, and any influx of foreign population, for whatever reason, means the same amount of ubanization, soil artificialisation, water and electricity consumption. The problem is not opening or not opening borders, but drying up the very source of migration.

La dépendance aux matières premières dont la première est l'alimentation. La réduction draconienne de la consommation d'eau à usage agricole ou industriel, la limitation effective de la population, la Suisse n'est pas extensible, et tout apport de population étrangère, sous quel que motif que ce soit, c'est autant d'ubanisation, d'artificialisation des sols, de consommation d'eau et d'électricité. Le problème n'est pas ouvrir ou ne pas ouvrir les frontières mais assécher la source même des migrations.

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2023-09-26 08:22

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Lacroix Elena

It is interesting that migration is always seen as a problem and practically never as an opportunity. Yet it is clear that migration is part of being human, and human history is the result of migratory movements. Incidentally, there are some scientists who say that the Swiss population could well continue to grow.

Interessant ist, dass Migration immer als ein Problem und praktisch nie als Chance betrachtet wird. Dabei ist klar: Migration gehört zum Menschsein dazu, die menschliche Geschichte ist das Resultat von Migrationsbewegungen. Es gibt übrigens manche Wissenschaftler:innen, die sagen, die Schweizer Bevölkerung könne durchaus noch weiterwachsen.

Yuan Lei 2023-09-21 12:10

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When it comes to the greatest challenge facing Switzerland on the international stage, I believe it is the blurring of Switzerland's international image, in particular the definition of neutrality.
In the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, the international situation and Swiss society have changed radically. The new situation requires the parliament and the federal government to regularly and thoroughly examine their own national policies, including old policies that were once correct and effective. They then decide whether they should be maintained, modified or discarded.
Switzerland's international image must be clear, civilized and sustainable.

谈到瑞士在国际舞台上所面临的最大挑战，我认为是瑞士的国际形象变得模糊不清，特别是中立的定义。
在20和21世纪，国际时局和瑞士社会都发生了天翻地覆的变化。新的形势要求国会和联邦政府定期彻底地检查自己的国家政策，包括那些曾经正确有效的古老政策。然后决定是否应该保持，修改或抛弃。
瑞士的国际形象必须是清晰的，符合文明规则的，可以持续施行的。

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2023-09-25 09:52

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Yuan Lei

What is your specific opinion on Swiss neutrality? How do you think Switzerland should position itself - especially now that we see a potential new bloc formation in geopolitics?

Was ist Ihre konkrete Meinung zur schweizerischen Neutralität? Wie denken Sie, sollte sich die Schweiz positionieren - vor allem jetzt, wo wir eine potenzielle neue Blockbildung in der Geopolitik sehen?

UrsAntonLoepfe 2023-09-15 13:35

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

According to the Federal Office for Civil Protection, Switzerland's greatest risk is a prolonged power shortage.
In Switzerland, people never seem to have noticed that we only had secure electricity last winter because Germany ramped up its gas-fired power plants and at the same time German industry reduced its gas demand by 30%. Moreover, it was a very warm winter. Nothing has changed for the next winter except that we now know that the EU/Germany sees no reason to continue supplying us with electricity in winter. It is of no use to build as many emergency power plants or to build up power reserves in reservoirs. The electricity will simply flow into the European grid until it collapses or is divided by means of brownouts. At the latest then, Switzerland is dependent on itself with its power supply. It is unbelievable how quickly one can obviously get used to risks and do nothing.

Gemäss Bundesamt für Bevölkerungsschutz gilt als grösstes Risiko der Schweiz eine lang andauernde Strommangellage.
In der Schweiz scheint man nie wahrgenommen zu haben, dass wir den letzten Winter nur sicher Strom hatten, weil Deutschland seine Gaskraftwerke hoch gefahren hat und gleichzeitig die deutsche Industrie ihren Gasbedarf um 30% gesenkt hat. Zudem war es ein sehr warmer Winter. An der Ausgangslage hat sich für den nächsten Winter nichts geändert, ausser dass wir nun wissen, dass die EU/Deutschland keinen Grund sieht uns weiterhin Strom im Winter zu liefern. Es nützt auch nichts, wenn wir noch soviele Notkraftwerek bauen oder Stromreserven in Stauseen aufbauen. Der Strom wird schlicht ins europäische Verbundnetz abfliessen bis dieses zusammbricht oder mittels Brownouts aufgeteilt wird. Spätestens dann, ist die Schweiz mit ihrer Stromversorgung auf sich selbst angewiesen. Es ist unglaublich, wie schnell man sich offensicht an Risiken gewöhnen kann und nichts unternimmt.

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2023-09-18 10:19

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@UrsAntonLoepfe

Thank you for your contribution, Mr. Loepfe! What solutions do you see in this problem area?

Danke für Ihren Beitrag, Herr Loepfe! Was für Lösungen sehen Sie in diesem Problemfeld?

Anona 2023-09-18 22:25

@Giannis Mavris

We buy from Norway.

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2023-09-19 16:55

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Anona

Will that be enough?

Ob das genügt?

marco brenni 2023-09-15 10:06

The following contribution has been automatically translated from IT.

Unfortunately, we have a weak-medium government, not at all suited to the postmodern challenges that are gigantic. Switzerland has never, or almost never, wanted strong personalities in government for institutional reasons of fragmented politics in too many small cantons. Small will be nice, but not when very gray clouds are gathering over the international geopolitical situation, with the added serious problem of climate change, which is happening much faster than expected! I really believe that as an overly quiet and peaceful country, we have become disaccustomed to having to deal with problems that are anything but "comfortable" . E.g., the urgent problem of atomic power plants was put in the basement too soon because of the "popular" vote. But on these eminently technical (!) problems the people have no competence to judge sensibly. Now one does not even have the political courage to resurrect the atomic energy issue, hoping for alternative energies, knowing full well that they will be totally insufficient .

Purtroppo abbiamo un governo debole-mediocre, per niente adatto alle sfide postmoderne che sono gigantesche. La Svizzera non ha mai, o quasi, voluto personalità forti in governo per ragioni istituzionali di politica frammentata in troppi piccoli cantoni. Piccolo sarà bello, ma non quando sulla situazione geopolitica internazionale si addensano nuvole molto grigie, con l'aggiunta del grave problema dei cambiamenti climatici, che avvengono molto più rapidamente del previsto! Credo proprio che da paese troppo tranquillo e pacioso, ci siamo ormai disabituati a dover affrontare problemi tutt'altro che "comodi" . Ad es. l'urgente problema delle centrali atomiche fu messo troppo presto in cantina per via del voto "popolare". Ma su questi problemi eminentemente tecnici (!) il popolo non ha nessuna competenza per poter giudicare in modo assennato. Ora non si ha nemmeno il coraggio politico di riesumare la questione dell'energia atomica, sperando nelle energie alternative, ben sapendo che saranno del tutto insufficienti .

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2023-09-18 10:18

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@marco brenni

Thank you for your contribution, Mr. Brenni. You address a sore point: Time and again, the electorate has to decide at the ballot box on matters that require a level of expertise that hardly everyone can have. However, this is factored into the instrument of referendums, because if only those who are supposed to have the full picture decide, then thorny questions quickly arise with regard to democratic legitimacy.
And your first point can be seen as a result of federalism. As we see time and again, it reaches its limits in times of crisis....

Danke für Ihren Beitrag, Herr Brenni. Sie sprechen einen wunden Punkt an: Die Stimmbevölkerung muss immer wieder an der Urne über Geschäfte entscheiden, die ein Knowhow voraussetzen, das kaum alle haben können. Das ist aber im Instrument der Volksabstimmungen einkalkuliert, denn wenn nur diejenigen entscheiden, die vermeintlich den ganzen Durchblick haben, dann stellen sich schnell heikle Fragen hinsichtlich der demokratischen Legitimation.
Und Ihren ersten Punkt kann man als Resultat des Föderalismus sehen. Wie wir immer wieder sehen, kommt der in Krisenzeiten an seine Grenzen...

Canuck 2023-09-21 08:22

@marco brenni

Completely agree with this statement. As long as we continue to operate in 26 small kingdoms (cantons) instead of a united country CH, not much change can be expected. Of the seven people who occupy the most important positions in our Government many should be replaced with people capable to deal with the current issues at hand. The ongoing welcome to all, especially people who come to CH to enjoy free medical care, and free income, all supported by the Swiss tax payers, should be returned to where they came from. If the average Swiss tax payer would realize what true financial burden they shoulder with the current welcome to all policy, they would have a hard time to believe it. I worked with an Asyl organization, I could see for myself what was and is going on. It made my blood boil. At the same time our seven wise men/women and the Staende/Kantonsrat have no funds left over for more AHV, for Invaliden Rente, for Education and more general support of poor people of whom are many living in our country.,

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2023-09-25 09:51

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Canuck

Fortunately, Switzerland's financial situation is in good shape, so I see things much less dramatically than you do. But as far as the government is concerned, there are always discussions about adapting the composition of the Federal Council to today's challenges, for example by expanding the number of seats. Would that be in your interest?

Die Finanzlage der Schweiz ist ja zum Glück in einem guten Zustand, insofern sehe ich das deutlich weniger dramatisch als Sie. Aber zur Regierung: Es gibt ja immer wieder Diskussionen darüber, die Zusammenstellung des Bundesrates den heutigen Herausforderungen anzupassen, beispielsweise durch eine Erweiterung der Sitze. Wäre das in Ihrem Sinne?

nkyriazi@comcast.net 2023-09-08 22:22

To accept that a government has the right to speak for all of the citizens already makes a statement. We created government to do those things we cannot accomplish as individuals such as build and maintain roads, bridges, and other infrastructure, police and fire protection, et cetera. I don't want my government to speak for me on the world stage. It is dangerous and unnecessary. If I hire a plumber to fix a broken pipe, I don't want them to tell me what color to paint the living room. Governments always seek to expand their power. Switzerland is exceptional due to its neutrality. When people call for the Swiss government to voice an opinion, it should respond 'The Swiss government has no power or authority to speak for all of its citizens or to control their behavior in this matter.'.

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2023-09-11 08:34

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@nkyriazi@comcast.net

Well, the government has power and authority under the constitution to shape foreign policy. Because even an absolutely neutral country would need a foreign policy - or do you think that there can be such a thing as an international order without a foreign policy?

Nun, die Regierung hat aber gemäss Verfassung Macht und Befugnis, um die Aussenpolitik zu gestalten. Denn selbst ein absolut neutrales Land bräuchte eine Aussenpolitik - oder sind sie der Meinung, dass es so etwas geben kann wie eine internationale Ordnung ohne Aussenpolitik?

Anona 2023-09-18 22:30

@Giannis Mavris

I have lived in 4 different countries and currently Switzerland is being pressured to take the same direction EU is taking, dictatorship and centralized power. Please do not loose your values. I grew up during communism and NO, this system does not work. Giving power to a government to make the decisions on your behalf DOES NOT WORK, has never worked and will never work. Direct Democracy is mot easy but it is the most sustainable political system humans have ever created. If you shift into the direction of EU, you will regret it.

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2023-09-19 17:00

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Anona

The question of the EU has not arisen here, but well: contrary to your opinion, I see neither a dictatorship nor a communist regime there. Moreover, in Switzerland, any rapprochement with the EU would be a question decided by the people at the ballot box - i.e. with the help of a direct democratic instrument. Then it would be in your sense again, wouldn't it?

Die Frage der EU hat sich hier nicht gestellt, aber gut: Entgegen Ihrer Meinung sehe ich da weder eine Diktatur, noch ein kommunistisches Regime. Zudem wäre in der Schweiz jede Annäherung an die EU eine Frage, die an der Urne von der Bevölkerung entschieden würde - also mithilfe eines direktdemokratischen Instruments. Dann wäre es ja wieder in Ihrem Sinn, nicht?

Anonymous 2023-09-07 16:26

Either BE neutral or STOP pretending.

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2023-09-08 10:35

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Anonymous

Do you think that Switzerland is no longer neutral?

Glauben Sie, dass die Schweiz nicht mehr neutral ist?

Anonymous 2023-09-08 10:39

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Giannis Mavris

Depends on which way the wind blows!

Kommt darauf an, woher der Wind blaeht!

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2023-09-08 10:41

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Anonymous

Naturally, it changes its direction again and again. Is Switzerland neutral or not? Or is the question naive - and it is ultimately a matter of opinion?

Der ändert naturgemäss seine Richtung immer wieder. Ist denn die Schweiz nun neutral oder nicht? Oder ist die Frage naiv - und es ist letztlich Ansichtssache?

Anonymous 2023-09-08 10:44

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@Giannis Mavris

As it fits at the moment.

Wie es gerade passt.

Anona 2023-09-18 22:32

@Giannis Mavris

It is neutral from the Swiss perspective. The concept of neutrality can be interpreted in many ways.

Anonymous 2023-09-19 10:45

@Anona

Stop bragging. One has to be honest, not just appear to be.

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