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Trade policy

Gold traceability, the weak link in Swiss watchmaking

Many Swiss watchmakers still struggle to trace the origins of the gold they rely on.

Swiss watchmakers still struggle to know where their gold comes from.

Trade policy

Swiss watchmaking industry grapples with spike in US trade tariffs

By Alexey Tarkhanov

The mystery of Switzerland’s surging imports of Uzbek and Kazakh gold

By Dominique Soguel

What role do ethical considerations play when you purchase gold?

By Dominique Soguel

Surgery for trans adolescents: the laws in Switzerland

Male body, female body: For young people who don't feel they have the right body, the pressure to change something about their birth gender is great.

This content was published on Sep 23, 2025 Swiss politicians are discussing a ban on gender reassignment surgery for under-18s. We explain what rights parents and children have.

Holcim also manufactures in Switzerland – here is the factory in Siggental, Canton of Aargau.

Green promises: the two faces of the Swiss cement giant Holcim

This content was published on Sep 22, 2025 On the very day Holcim is fighting against a climate lawsuit in a court in Zug, the Swiss cement company is promoting its Net Zero plans at a congress just a few kilometres down the road.

If the Swiss Army knife is made in America, is it still Swiss?

This content was published on Sep 22, 2025 US President Donald Trump’s 39% tariff on Switzerland has forced some companies to consider whether they could produce in the US while still retaining their Swiss identity.

Rising health insurance premiums and debates over media fees are hitting the wallets of people in Switzerland.

Switzerland Today

This content was published on Sep 23, 2025 Rising health insurance premiums and debates over media fees are making headlines in Switzerland.

Swiss tourism is booming – but where are the Chinese?

This content was published on Sep 20, 2025 The number of visitors to Switzerland from the US and India has rebounded strongly after Covid, but arrivals from China remain well below pre-pandemic levels. A look at the data reveals an intriguing story.

The meltdown at Nestlé

This content was published on Sep 22, 2025 The scandal at the Swiss food giant raises questions about its corporate culture and the health of its conglomerate model.

BRICS and the legacy of the Non-Aligned Movement

This content was published on Sep 22, 2025 Are the BRICS the new Non-Aligned Movement? Historian Nataša Mišković points out differences and similarities.

Geopolitics

Gold traceability, the weak link in Swiss watchmaking

The meltdown at Nestlé

Moon fortune to stay in Zug foundation

Navi Pillay (right) and Chris Sidoti during the presentation of the new report of the UN Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

UN Commission of Inquiry concludes genocide is taking place in Gaza

Truth or tale: Have foreign leaders hidden money in Swiss banks?

Timeline: Switzerland and the war in the Middle East since October 7, 2023

An aerial photograph taken by a drone shows Palestinians walking through the destruction caused by the Israeli air and ground offensive in Jabaliya, Gaza Strip, Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025. (AP Photo/Mohammad Abu Samra)

When is a ‘genocide’ really genocide?

The Democratic Republic of Congo produces over 70 percent of the global supply of cobalt. The metal is a critical component of batteries and seen as key to the renewable energy transition.

UN experts warn Congo’s conflict minerals slipping into global market

On the night of August 31, Afghanistan was hit by a destructive earthquake measuring 6 on the Richter scale. More than 6,700 houses were destroyed.

Aid workers race against clock after earthquake in Afghanistan

Is the UN still relevant at 80?

Slowness and alleged political interference mark Swiss record on international crimes

Brazilian soldiers disembark in Naples during the summer of 1944.

How Switzerland protected Latin American interests in Nazi Europe

How the Swiss central bank built a $167bn tech-led US stocks portfolio

Can Switzerland lower agricultural tariffs to negotiate a better deal with the US?

An Estonian woman retrieves her digital health card. Photo taken in Tallinn, 2018.

Why a slow-paced digital transition may be best for democracy

Middle East crisis

Petition for recognition of Palestine handed over in Bern

This content was published on Sep 23, 2025 A petition with 13,750 signatures urges Switzerland to recognise Palestine, delivered to government and parliament in Bern by writer Thomas Meyer.

Child survivor of Israeli air strike in Gaza evacuated to Italy

Switzerland urges Israel to lift medical limits on Gaza, reopen evacuation corridor

This content was published on Sep 23, 2025 Israel must lift restrictions on medical equipment bound for Gaza and reopen the evacuation corridor to the West Bank, Switzerland says.

Hundreds attend pro-Israel and pro-Palestine rally in Lausanne

Double Gaza demo in Lausanne sees clashes with police

This content was published on Sep 19, 2025 Hundreds of people took to the streets in Lausanne on Thursday evening in favour of Israel on the one hand and the Palestinians on the other.

Swiss foreign ministry calls for end to escalation in Gaza

This content was published on Sep 17, 2025 Switzerland urges a Gaza ceasefire, release of hostages, and compliance with international law.

Appeal to Berne to protect Swiss nationals en route to Gaza

Foreign ministry called on to protect Swiss nationals en route to Gaza

This content was published on Sep 17, 2025 Swiss calls mount for consular protection of nationals heading to Gaza in aid flotilla.

Swiss parliament does not want sanctions against Israel

This content was published on Sep 11, 2025 Like the Senate, the House of Representatives was against a proposal to impost sanctions against Israel.

NGO Médecins Sans Frontières denounces "genocide in Gaza" in Bern

Médecins Sans Frontières denounces Gaza ‘genocide’

This content was published on Sep 10, 2025 NGO Médecins Sans Frontières Suisse demonstrate against ‘genocide’ in the Gaza Strip.

Council of States against Switzerland recognising Palestine

Senate against Switzerland recognising Palestine

This content was published on Sep 9, 2025 The Swiss Senate does not want Switzerland to recognise the state of Palestine at present. On Tuesday it rejected an initiative by canton Geneva calling for this.

Council of States does not want sanctions against Israeli settlers

Swiss Senate rejects sanctions against Israeli settlers

This content was published on Sep 9, 2025 The Swiss Senate has rejected a call for Switzerland to join the EU’s sanctions against violent Israeli settlers. The majority also did not want an end to military cooperation with Israel.

The UN denounces the "genocidal rhetoric" of Israeli leaders

UN denounces ‘genocidal rhetoric’ of Israeli leaders

This content was published on Sep 8, 2025 Israel is committing war crime after war crime in the Gaza Strip, according to the United Nations.

Zurich Cantonal Council wants "no taxpayers' money for terrorists"

Zurich authorities want ‘no taxpayer money for terrorists’

This content was published on Sep 8, 2025 Zurich cantonal parliament has voted against recognising the state of Palestine. However, it provisionally supported a motion calling for “no taxpayers’ money for terrorists”.

Resinous Swiss Armed Forces drone project to be redimensioned

Switzerland to press on with Israeli drone procurement after some adjustments

This content was published on Sep 4, 2025 The Swiss defence ministry has decided to reconfigure the procurement project for six Israeli ADS-15 drones and dispense with certain functionalities.

Former diplomats call on Switzerland to act

Former diplomats criticise Switzerland’s silence on Gaza

This content was published on Aug 31, 2025 Former diplomats urge Switzerland to take concrete action over Gaza conflict.

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

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.

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.

Global trade war

If the Swiss Army knife is made in America, is it still Swiss?

Swiss Jura region hit hard by US tariffs

This content was published on Sep 18, 2025 Since the beginning of September, more than 100 Jura companies, employing a total of 4,000 people, have applied for short-time work compensation.

Fall in watch exports to the United States in August

Swiss watch exports to US take tumble amid high tariffs

This content was published on Sep 18, 2025 Swiss watch exports went into a tailspin in August, plummeting by almost a quarter, following a 45% jump in July.

Ricola: new factory opening postponed, US duties weighed

Ricola postpones new Swiss factory opening due to US tariffs

This content was published on Sep 17, 2025 Ricola delays new Swiss factory plans due to US tariffs, with investments and 100 jobs on hold.

Global customs dispute weighs on Swiss labour market

Global tariff dispute weighs on Swiss labour market

This content was published on Sep 17, 2025 Swiss employers expect fewer hires in late 2025 as global tariffs bite.

Companies respond to customs duties with automation and regionalisation

Swiss firms react to tariffs with automation and local production

This content was published on Sep 16, 2025 According to a survey, Swiss companies have taken several measures in response to the recently announced tariffs by the United States, including increasing efficiency and automation.

Can Switzerland lower agricultural tariffs to negotiate a better deal with the US?

This content was published on Sep 15, 2025 The European Union, which wrangled a much lower US tariff, offered concessions on certain food imports. Is this an option for Switzerland?

Hayek (Swatch): 'whole world saw Switzerland panic'

Swatch CEO on tariffs: ‘whole world saw Switzerland panic’

This content was published on Sep 15, 2025 Swatch CEO criticises Swiss government’s response to US tariffs, urging stronger action.

US Secretary of Commerce Lutnick believes in customs deal with Switzerland

US Secretary of Commerce confident of Swiss tariff deal

This content was published on Sep 12, 2025 US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick confident about striking a customs deal with Switzerland.

Despite US tariff hammer: Swiss SME sentiment remains stable

Swiss SME sentiment remains stable despite steep US tariffs

This content was published on Sep 11, 2025 Despite the high US tariffs, the mood among Swiss SMEs has hardly deteriorated. However, two-thirds of export-oriented companies have now adjusted their export strategy.

Council of States wants to counter high US tariffs with extended short-time working

Swiss Senate votes to extend short-time working to counter tariffs

This content was published on Sep 10, 2025 Swiss Senate approves extension of short-time working compensation in the face of US tariffs.

US Supreme Court to hear case on Trump's tariffs

Swiss await US Supreme Court ruling on tariffs

This content was published on Sep 10, 2025 US Supreme Court to rule on legality of Trump’s tariff policy, which impacts Swiss imports duties.

Mechanical engineering companies have been struggling with weak growth, and not just since Trump

Swiss mechanical firms were struggling before Trump

This content was published on Sep 8, 2025 Swiss mechanical engineering companies are said to be one of the main victims of Donald Trump’s high tariffs. However, the industry has been struggling for years.

Parmelin speaks of "constructive meetings" in Washington

Swiss held ‘constructive’ tariff meeting in Washington

This content was published on Sep 6, 2025 Tariff talks between Switzerland and the US described as “constructive”.

Economics Minister Guy Parmelin travelled to the USA at short notice

Swiss economics minister pays short-notice visit to US

This content was published on Sep 5, 2025 Swiss Economics Minister travels to US at short notice on Friday to hold talks at ministerial level.

Swiss Abroad

Surgery for trans adolescents: the laws in Switzerland

Photo of a woman in front of parliament in Bern

Switzerland’s strangest votes: from women’s rights to cows’ horns

The final stretch before the September 28 vote

September 28 vote: Swiss set to back e-ID but undecided on cantonal property tax

New delegates want to foster stronger diaspora participation

What difficulties did you face when renewing your identity documents abroad?

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

Muni Max: how a giant bull got a Swiss canton raging

This content was published on Sep 20, 2025 Wrestling icon “Muni Max” is huge – as is the controversy around his move to a neighbouring canton.

World record at Chardonne: 1088 bottles opened simultaneously

Swiss village breaks world record for uncorking wine bottles

This content was published on Sep 14, 2025 In Chardonne 1,088 bottles of Chasselas were uncorked simultaneously.

Täsch, a Portuguese enclave in the heart of postcard Switzerland

This content was published on Sep 13, 2025 In Täsch, a Swiss village next to Zermatt, the Portuguese outnumber the Swiss.

How Switzerland became the ‘motherland of minigolf’

This content was published on Sep 6, 2025 Why was minigolf standardised in Switzerland, and how did it then conquer the country?

In Switzerland, it is not unusual to keep a few gold coins among other precious objects.

The Swiss and their gold Vrenelis, an enduring love affair

This content was published on Aug 30, 2025 The minting of a new coin generated enormous interest but turned into an online fiasco.

Democratic din: voters to decide fate of leaf blowers in Zurich

This content was published on Aug 28, 2025 In Switzerland’s biggest city, the ‘world’s most notorious power tool’ is facing a public ballot.

Ups and downs: a 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.

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

Follow us on TikTok!

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.

Watch us on YouTube!

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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Newsletters

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We’re now live on Threads too. Tap this link to follow our new account and get updates on all our stories from Switzerland.

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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.

Do you trust that your country can withstand attacks against its democracy?

Democracies are increasingly coming under threat, both from within and without. How do your country’s institutions fare?

Join the discussion

Sep 11, 2025

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17 Comments

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Watch now

Truth or tale: Have foreign leaders hidden money in Swiss banks?

Switzerland’s strangest votes: from women’s rights to cows’ horns

Swiss neutrality: your questions answered – Part three

New delegates want to foster stronger diaspora participation

Swiss neutrality: your questions answered – Part two

Is Switzerland ready to embrace digital ID?

Are US patients subsidising healthcare abroad? Journalist Jessica Davis Pluess takes a look at this claim.

Truth or tale: Are US patients subsidising healthcare in Switzerland?

Swiss neutrality: your questions answered – Part one

Photo of man deciding between apples or chocolate

Are social scores a threat to democracy?

What does it mean to you as a Swiss Abroad to take part in the Swiss Wrestling and Alpine Festival?

Between two worlds: Thomas Badat, a Canadian wrestler with a Swiss heart

Europe’s tallest dam turns 75

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?

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External Content

Bloomberg Business

This content was published on Sep 23, 2025 – 16:00

Wall Street Traders on Hold as Powell Set to Speak: Markets Wrap

This content was published on Sep 23, 2025 – 12:11

UBS Raises $824 Million From Risky Bond in Australia

This content was published on Sep 23, 2025 – 11:54

UBS Ends French Tax-Dodge Saga With $985 Million Settlement

This content was published on Sep 22, 2025 – 22:00

Stocks Get Tech Lift as Nvidia Rekindles AI Wagers: Markets Wrap

This content was published on Sep 22, 2025 – 14:26

Merz Taps Ex-UBS Banker Blessing as New German Investment Czar

This content was published on Sep 21, 2025 – 20:06

Key US Inflation Metric to Ease as Focus Shifts to Jobs Market

This content was published on Sep 20, 2025 – 12:30

Novartis Working on Price Cut Proposals for US, CEO tells NZZ

This content was published on Sep 19, 2025 – 23:02

US Stock Volume Spikes in Third-Busiest Day Ever: Markets Wrap

This content was published on Sep 19, 2025 – 21:56

Aptiv Considers Selling Electrical Distribution Unit Instead of Spinoff

This content was published on Sep 19, 2025 – 17:42

SMG Rises in Swiss Debut After Investors Clamored for Shares

This content was published on Sep 19, 2025 – 09:17

Gresham House to Buy SUSI Partners in Green Infrastructure Deal

This content was published on Sep 19, 2025 – 06:00

Swiss National Bank Negative Rates Are Off Most Economists’ Agenda for Next Week

This content was published on Sep 18, 2025 – 22:50

S&P 500, Nasdaq, Dow and Russell 2000 Hit Records: Markets Wrap

This content was published on Sep 18, 2025 – 15:31

JPMorgan Said to Help Sell €200 Million of ECB’s Worldline Bonds

This content was published on Sep 18, 2025 – 11:17

Roche to Buy 89bio for Up to $3.5 Billion in Obesity Push

This content was published on Sep 18, 2025 – 11:09

Swiss Gold Exports to US Collapsed in August After Tariff Scare

This content was published on Sep 18, 2025 – 11:07

Swiss Exports to US Collapsed in First Month of 39% Tariff

This content was published on Sep 18, 2025 – 09:34

Swiss Watch Exports Plunge on Weak China Demand, US Tariffs

This content was published on Sep 18, 2025 – 09:28

Nestle’s New CEO Tries To Move Past Scandal and Weak Management

This content was published on Sep 17, 2025 – 23:05

Stocks Join Bonds Lower as Fed Brings No Fireworks: Markets Wrap

Hyung Jin Moon (à droite) de l'église du Sanctuaire rejoint ses paroissiens pour une cérémonie de reconsécration des mariages

Moon fortune to stay in Zug foundation

This content was published on Sep 21, 2025 Legal proceedings in the US have been in vain: the Moon sect’s fortune will remain safe in the coffers of a foundation based in the Swiss canton of Zug.

Muni Max: how a giant bull got a Swiss canton raging

This content was published on Sep 20, 2025 Wrestling icon “Muni Max” is huge – as is the controversy around his move to a neighbouring canton.

The high stakes fight over drug prices

This content was published on Sep 19, 2025 Global drug pricing disputes are intensifying as pharma firms and regulators clash over how much a medicine is worth.

How a clash with Roche exposed cracks in Swiss drug pricing system

This content was published on Sep 19, 2025 Switzerland’s new process to speed up patient access to the latest drugs hit its first major hurdle in a clash with Roche.

UN Commission of Inquiry concludes genocide is taking place in Gaza

This content was published on Sep 19, 2025 The report’s authors point to the responsibility of Israeli leaders and call on states to act. Its publication has drawn little reaction in Europe.

When is a ‘genocide’ really genocide?

This content was published on Sep 18, 2025 Is genocide being committed in Gaza? While more and more experts in international law say it is, the issue continues to divide opinion.

How Switzerland protected Latin American interests in Nazi Europe

This content was published on Sep 16, 2025 Switzerland represented interests of Latin American countries during the Second World War. This helped it shape a global diplomatic network.

Täsch, a Portuguese enclave in the heart of postcard Switzerland

This content was published on Sep 13, 2025 In Täsch, a Swiss village next to Zermatt, the Portuguese outnumber the Swiss.

Damien Hauser revamps the tenets of Afrofuturism - a genre that centers Black history and culture and incorporates science-fiction, technology, and futuristic elements - by mixing indie filmmaking (low budgets, non-professional actors) with AI tools to create grandiose sceneries.

Swiss-Kenyan filmmaker sets lo-fi love story in hi-tech future

This content was published on Sep 7, 2025 Damien Hauser’s ‘Memory of Princess Mumbi’ awed audiences at the Venice Film Festival by exploring the ethical and creative tensions of using AI in cinema.

How Switzerland became the ‘motherland of minigolf’

This content was published on Sep 6, 2025 Why was minigolf standardised in Switzerland, and how did it then conquer the country?

The Swiss and their gold Vrenelis, an enduring love affair

This content was published on Aug 30, 2025 The minting of a new coin generated enormous interest but turned into an online fiasco.

A man photographing a group of 3 women and 1 man standing in front of stone houses

Australian descendants of Swiss emigrants untangle their origins

This content was published on Aug 31, 2025 Follow Juliette Buchanan as she uncovers her Swiss roots in Verzasca Valley and reconnects with long-lost relatives.

Swiss wrestlers from abroad are proud of their tradition

This content was published on Aug 29, 2025 Six Swiss expats from North America are heading to Mollis in canton Glarus, for the 2025 Federal Wrestling and Alpine Games Festival (Schwingfest).

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.

People overlooking lake of Zurich with mountains in the background

The Swiss Abroad have less trust in Swiss politics, says poll

This content was published on Sep 10, 2025 A major SBC opinion poll shows that satisfaction is high among the Swiss Abroad but there is criticism regarding politics and the welfare state.

Photo taken of US president Donald Trump through a Swiss cross

Swiss worried by world under Trump, says poll

This content was published on Sep 7, 2025 The Swiss are worried about the return of the law of the strongest and want to see a firmer stance taken by the authorities, according to an SBC opinion poll.

Switzerland’s mood barometer reveals high satisfaction but cracks in unity

This content was published on Sep 4, 2025 The world has become gloomier lately. But one thing has remained remarkably constant: the Swiss population’s satisfaction with their lives.

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?

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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.

People are walking along a bridge at sunset.

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!

People walking along the lake in Lucerne.

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.

Woman sitting looking over the Aletsch glacier

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!