Becoming a Swiss citizen is a lengthy and sometimes arduous process. For those with an EU passport 10 years of residency is required before applying. In addition, there are language requirements, general knowledge tests, proof of not having received welfare recently and of having paid taxes, along with typically significant fees, depending on the canton. […]
Swiss politicians and voters care about different things
Democracy is built around the idea of political candidates promising policies that voters want. A recent survey suggests there are significant differences between what Swiss voters and political candidates consider important. According to the survey run by gfs.berne based on responses collected in April and May this year, several topics that have received significant political […]
More than 80% of Switzerland satisfied with life
A survey published this week shows that 82% of Switzerland’s population is at least moderately satisfied with life. The survey published by gfs.berne, based on data collected during April and May 2023, showed that only 18% of the population were either not very satisfied (13%) or not at all satisfied (5%) with life. The remaining […]
Most popular names in Switzerland in 2022
According to figures published this week by Switzerland’s Federal Statistical Office, Emma and Noah were the most popular names for newborns in Switzerland in 2022. In 2021, the leaders were Mia and Noah. Noah has been the leading name for boys for three years in a row. Mia had a long run as the leading […]
Switzerland records highest annual temperature
On Thursday afternoon, the air temperature in Geneva reached 39.3 degrees celsius, its highest level in 2023. The heat was so high in schools the authorities in Geneva lifted to obligation to go to school on Thursday and Friday afternoon, reported RTS. The decision was taken to protect the health of staff and students, said […]
Population growth in Switzerland – 2023 could be a record year
In 2023, Switzerland’s population could increase by 148,000, the most it has ever risen in one year, according to a report by Wüest Partner, a real estate consulting firm. According to calculations by the consulting firm, Switzerland could break a population growth record in 2023 with a population increase of 148,000 people. The projected rise […]
Demand for workers pushes up EU migration to Switzerland
Over the first half of 2023, the number of foreign residents in Switzerland rose by 47,200. Most came from the EU to work, show recently published statistics. After deducting the number of people leaving Switzerland, a net 9,384 people were added to the resident population during the first half of 2023. Much of the movement […]
Swiss unions demands 4% pay hike
The Swiss union association Travail.Suisse is demanding salary increases of between 3.5% and 4.5%, depending on the sector, for all workers reported RTS. The organisation argues that the demanded hike is justified as a way to keep salaries aligned with cost of living increases and rising productivity. It says that costs such as healthcare and […]
Switzerland to reduce speeding penalties from 1 October
This week, Switzerland’s Federal Council announced the introduction of new rules for those caught speeding on Swiss roads. However, the changes will apply only in specific instances. Serious speeders will continue to face sanctions of one year in prison and the loss of their license for a minimum of two years. From 1 October 2023, […]
Switzerland tests new anti-wolf collar
An increasing number of livestock are being attacked by wolves in Switzerland as their numbers increase. Some environmentalists argue wolves are part of the natural ecosystem and therefore should be protected. However, many farmers object to having their livestock attacked. A new anti-wolf collar, that can be worn by sheep, goats and cows, may help […]
