• Renewable Energy

    Switzerland is supporting renewables domestically. Their use is rising sharply. Hydroelectric power is used the most, followed by wood.

  • Switzerland is a direct democracy

    Thanks to direct democracy, citizens can have their say directly on decisions at all political levels.

  • Research and Development

    Switzerland invests over CHF 23 billion in research and development (R&D) annually, which equates to 3.15% of its gross domestic product.

Topics

People crossing a street

Society

The main driver of demographic growth in Switzerland over the last few decades has been migration.

Federal Square with the fountain in front of Federal Palace in Bern

Politics and history

Federalism and direct democracy reflect the great importance that the Swiss political system places on the freedom of choice and self-determination.

Discussion in a break room at the World Economic Forum

Economy

Switzerland has one of the most competitive economies in the world thanks above all to its highly developed service sector.

The River Hinterrhein near Rothenbrunnen

Environment

Switzerland has three main geographic regions: the Alps covering around 60% of the country's total surface area, the Swiss Plateau (30%) and the Jura (10%).

More Switzerland on the web

A hand on a screen

swissnex.org
Swiss science, education, art and innovation worldwide

Sign post to many different countries

aso.ch
Organisation of the Swiss Abroad

ch.ch
Government close to the people