Government leads drive for more sport
The government is trying to encourage Swiss people to take more exercise. Unveiling a new sports policy at its session on Monday, the cabinet said it wanted to foster a "spirit of sport" among the population.
With around one third of all Swiss reportedly taking too little exercise, the government is seeking the help of industry as well as the health and education sectors to promote the benefits of physical activity.
The sports minister, Adolf Ogi, described the new policy as a milestone. He said it was the first time the government had developed a comprehensive and dynamic sports concept.
The new policy aims to develop the role of sports in Switzerland, nurture sporting potential among young people and prevent the dismantling of sports activities in schools.
It also envisages stepping up the fight against doping, corruption, violence and racism, which detract from the image of some sports.
The new policy, drawn up by the sports ministry and experts in the field, has been under discussion for a year.
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