Switzerland is becoming more politically polarised. The latest SRG election barometer shows support rising for parties on the left and right as the centre shrinks. It also reveals marked differences between men and women. The Swiss People’s … [Read more...]
News and Features
Swiss voters to decide on four federal proposals in November
Switzerland’s busy voting calendar continues. On 27 September, voters rejected initiatives on food production and neutrality. The next round is already on the horizon: on 29 November 2026, they will decide four federal proposals covering pension … [Read more...]
Switzerland releases jet-fuel reserves as Zurich airport faces a shortage
Switzerland has authorised the release of up to 30m litres of jet fuel from compulsory stocks over the next fortnight to avert a shortage at Zurich airport. The volume represents 6.5% of the country’s aviation-fuel reserves. The release of … [Read more...]
FILM: MINOTAUR ***1/2 – a film about the quiet corruption of the Russian elite
16 October 2026 MINOTAUR ***1/2 (vo Russian) A married couple and their son are the cream of the crop of Russian society. They have a state-of-the-art home, and the husband runs a successful firm, though many of his male employees are leaving … [Read more...]
French-speaking woman bids for Swiss cabinet seat from right-wing party dominated by German-speaking men
Céline Amaudruz, a vice-president of the Swiss People’s Party (UDC/SVP) and a member of Switzerland’s lower house, announced on Thursday that she would seek to succeed Guy Parmelin on the Federal Council, the country’s seven-member executive. The … [Read more...]
Guides
Language requirements for Swiss citizenship and visas – what you need to know
Brought to you by Swiss French School. On 1 January 2019, Switzerland’s federal government tightened and harmonised the rules on language requirements to qualify for some residence permits, B and C permits in particular, and … [Read More...]
Setting up a business in Switzerland – a guide
Brought to you by Winbiz online accounting for Swiss businesses. So you have decided to start a business. You have a business plan and are ready to get started. Before you launch you need a name and possibly a company. Broadly there are two options … [Read More...]
Activities
Switzerland’s cow parades are back: where to see them in 2026
Each autumn Switzerland’s cattle leave their high pastures for the valleys. The journey, known as a désalpe in French-speaking Switzerland and an Alpabzug in German-speaking areas, has become one of the country’s most photogenic rural traditions. … [Read more...]
The Swiss cheese train to Chateau d’Oex – fondue and alpine tradition
It’s called Le Train du Fromage – The Cheese Train – but after this day tour, you’ll remember a lot more than that steaming fondue you had for lunch at an alpine village restaurant. You can board The Cheese Train (just one of several trains) in … [Read more...]
Taking a trip back in time on a Swiss steam train
Trains run Saturdays and Sundays from 4 May until 27 October 2019. On 21 May 1966, the local rail company closed the line between the two small towns of Blonay and Chamby, in Switzerland’s Riviera region, on the eastern reaches of … [Read more...]
