Democracy, diesel emissions and deluges

Huge Swiss flag on the side of the Saentis — Keystone

This content was published on November 19, 2017 - 12:00

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Here are the stories we’ll be following the week of November 20.

dark clouds over a Volkswagen (VW) plant in Wolfsburg, Germany — Keystone

Monday

Around two years ago, the world was shocked to learn of falsified diesel emissions tests at German car maker VW. Swiss automobile engineer Marc Besch was a part of the research group that first uncovered the scandal. He shares his side of the story.

Hunters out looking for birds — Keystone

Tuesday

To offset price competition from elsewhere, Swiss weapons manufacturers have turned to the country’s hallmark precision engineering to turn out one-of-a-kind rifles and pistols.

The parliament building in Bern — Keystone

Wednesday

How much of Switzerland’s economic success is down to its political system? An in-depth analysis looks at the federalist forces shaping the country and its economy.

Swiss flag with jets in background — Keystone

Thursday

What are the limits and unique features of the famous Swiss neutrality, and what does it really mean in practice? We explain what Switzerland’s brand of “active” neutrality involves and how it can raise questions.

A man clears up after floods in Uerkheim — Keystone

Friday

The Swiss town of Uerkheim twice voted down more flood protection. But then came the flood waters…we bring you a story of the ups and downs of direct democracy at work.

In case you missed it:

Ein Junge steht auf einem Balkon und schaut auf eine grosse Baustelle hinunter.

What it’s like to be a poor child in wealthy Switzerland

This content was published on Nov 15, 2017 Living in Switzerland has its price. More than 300,000 children in the country are confronted with this every day. Niels is one of them.

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