Switzerland’s breast cancer screening programmes are under threat, reported SRF. The Cancer League, a leading advocacy group, has warned that upcoming cuts to physician fees may push some radiologists to abandon the initiative altogether—jeopardising a system credited with saving lives through early detection. Currently, 14 cantons offer biennial breast cancer screening to women aged 50 […]
Swiss grand parents lead Europe on childcare
According to Switzerland’s Federal Statistical Office (FSO), nearly two-thirds of children under 13 received some form of supplementary family care in 2023. On average, Swiss children spent 14 hours a week in non-parental care. Unsurprisingly, the youngest children received the most attention: those under four clocked in around 20 hours weekly. Grandparents bear a significant […]
Deadline triggers boom is oil heating in Swiss canton
Oil heating is making an unexpected comeback in the Swiss canton of Basel-Landschaft, reported SRF. Under a revised cantonal energy law that came into force in October 2024, new buildings must be equipped with low-emission heating systems. From January 2026, the same rule will apply to replacements in existing buildings, provided the system is more […]
Swiss referendum axed due to lack of support
Switzerland’s media industry is set to receive a financial boost after a last-ditch effort to block federal subsidies failed to gather enough support, reported RTS. A group opposed to the aid package, which was approved by Parliament in March 2025, admitted it could not meet the required 50,000 signatures by the 10 July deadline. A […]
Swiss Rail uses fire trucks to cool rails
This week, SRF reported that Swiss Rail is using fire trucks to water rails to reduce the risk of buckling and derailment. Sun and summer temperatures can push the heat of the rails as high as 60 degrees. Most lengths of track are welded together. This means there are no expansion gaps to release pressure […]
FILM: SUPERMAN *** reviews from two generations
11 July 2025. We have a pro and con column this week on the latest D.C. Comics blockbuster, SUPERMAN. And it’s between my son Dirk’s punchy pro, and my own more restrained con. Call it a generational gap. SUPERMAN *** (review written by Dirk) James Gunn’s Superman is faster than a speeding bullet… and funnier […]
Swiss national day: 4 things you ought to know
Every year on 1 August, Swiss celebrate the founding of their nation with barbecues, friends, town celebrations and a lot of fireworks. But what is it all about? 1. The Federal Charter of 1291 Switzerland’s national celebration, held every year on 1 August, celebrates the signing of the Federal Charter of 1291 in early August […]
Swiss insurers fear cost explosion from weight loss drug
Since March 2024, Switzerland’s basic health insurance started reimbursing part of the cost of Wegovy, a weight-loss drug developed by Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk. The decision has led to a surge in uptake—and concern among insurers, reported RTS. Roughly 40,000 people received Wegovy under Switzerland’s mandatory health insurance in 2024, according an association representing […]
Geneva opens new crack consumption room
In the summer of 2023, Geneva’s supervised drug-consumption centre located behind Cornavin train station, banned crack use after a surge in violence overwhelmed the facility. Now crack smokers are being admitted again—this time to a purpose-built extension opened officially on Tuesday, reported RTS. The new space, which quietly began operations two weeks ago, is the […]
Switzerland’s next round of votes announced
Swiss voters will weigh in on three initiatives on 30 November 2025, the Federal Council announced on Tuesday. The proposals concern the introduction of universal civil service, a hefty inheritance tax to fund climate action, and expanded public subsidies for media outlets. The first initiative seeks to replace compulsory military service for men with a […]
