With its majestic mountains, age-old traditions and cutting-edge innovation, Switzerland is a fascinating place. This small country, often cited as an example of stability, offers a diversity and richness that go far beyond clichés. Take a look at a country that harmoniously combines past, present and future.
Welcome to Switzerland!
Switzerland, officially the Swiss Confederation, was born of a pact of alliance in 1291 between three Alpine cantons. This founding gesture, celebrated every1 August, laid the foundations for a country that has preserved its independence and neutrality down the centuries.
From the Protestant Reformation to the 19th century, through the upheavals of the Helvetic Republic imposed by Napoleon, Switzerland has gradually established itself as a model of federalism.
The modern federal state, established in 1848, has consolidated a unique political system based on direct democracy and popular consultation.
Geography: a natural setting
At the heart of Europe, Switzerland shares its borders with five countries: France, Germany, Italy, Austria and the Principality of Liechtenstein.
Its relatively modest surface area(41,285 km2) is dominated by the Alps (60% of the country), the Jura mountains to the west and the Swiss Plateau, the most densely populated region.
The highest point, Pointe Dufour (4,634 metres above sea level), overlooks a mosaic of lakes and green valleys. The country has more than 1,500 lakes, including Lake Geneva, the largest in Western Europe.
Switzerland is also a pioneer in environmental protection, with 24% of its territory classified as a protected area of national importance1 . The challenges remain, particularly in view of the accelerated melting of the Alpine glaciers, pollution of the lakes and the constant need to preserve biodiversity.
A federal and multilingual society
Switzerland is a jigsaw puzzle of 26 cantons, each with a high degree of autonomy. Direct democracy reigns supreme here: in 2024, citizens voted on more than 15 federal matters, a record in Europe.
The country has four official languages: German (62%), French (23%), Italian (8%) and Romansh (0.5%). This linguistic diversity, the reflection of a cultural mosaic, is expressed in everyday life and in the institutions.
With over 9 million inhabitants (9,048,900 on 31 December 2024), Switzerland has a moderate population density but a high level of urbanisation, with Zurich, Geneva, Basel and Lausanne being the main centres.
A solid, innovative economy
Switzerland regularly ranks among the world’s most competitive economies. Its nominal gross domestic product (GDP) reached CHF 896 billion in 2023, with growth of 1.3% despite an uncertain global context. The tertiary sector dominates (nearly 74% of GDP), driven by finance, insurance, health and tourism.
Industry is not to be outdone, with the chemical-pharmaceutical(Novartis, Roche), watchmaking(Rolex, Swatch) and agri-food(Nestlé) sectors all enjoying international renown.
Innovation is a key driver for the country. Switzerland has been world number one in the Global Innovation Index for 13 years (WIPO 2, 2024). Exports, mainly to the EU and the US, account for almost 70% of GDP.
Transport: a model of efficiency
Travelling through Switzerland means experiencing one of the densest and most punctual transport networks in the world. SBB (Swiss Federal Railways) serves more than 3,000 stations, with on-time trains and smooth connections. Rail tunnels such as the Gotthard (57 kilometres, the longest in the world) bear witness to Switzerland’s mastery of the challenges of Alpine infrastructure.
Urban transport is focusing on soft mobility, with trams, electric buses and self-service bicycles. More than 60% of Swiss people use public transport regularly, another European record.
Tourism: between nature and culture
Tourism accounts for 2.5% of GDP and employs over 180,000 people.
The mountain and ski resorts (Zermatt, Verbier, Davos) attract an international clientele, as do the summer walks in Graubünden and Valais. The cities are not to be outdone: Geneva and Zurich shine with their cultural dynamism, museums and festivals (Montreux Jazz, Art Basel…).
In the face of climate change, the sector is adapting: diversifying activities, promoting sustainable tourism and enhancing the value of local heritage.
Leisure and sports: a passion for the great outdoors
Switzerland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with 65,000 kilometres of signposted footpaths, 7,000 kilometres of cycle paths and lakes perfect for swimming, sailing or paddle-boarding. Skiing remains the national sport, but trail running, climbing, paragliding and hiking are gaining ground.
In terms of events, the Fête des Vignerons (held in Vevey once every generation for 20 years), the Street Parade in Zurich and the Paléo Festival in Nyon bear witness to the country’s vitality and cultural diversity.
Gastronomy: local produce and creativity
Swiss cuisine is just like the country itself: varied and inventive. It’s impossible to think of Switzerland without thinking of fondue, raclette, Grisons meat or homemade chocolates. Each canton cultivates its own specialities: malakoff from Vaud, capuns from Graubünden, polenta from Ticino.
The trend is also towards local, organic and regional products. Switzerland has more than 120 Michelin-starred restaurants (2024), a sign of a creative and vibrant gastronomy.
Swiss society and quality of life
The decentralised education system is renowned for its excellence and international outlook. The health sector boasts one of the highest life expectancies in the world (83.7 years in 2024). Safety, urban cleanliness and the quality of its infrastructure all contribute to a very high quality of life index.
Challenges and prospects
Switzerland is not without its challenges: an ageing population, the integration of migrants (almost 26% of whom are foreign nationals), pressure on housing and adaptation to climate change. Its neutrality, long an asset, is being called into question in a shifting geopolitical context.
The country is resolutely committed to the energy transition (aiming for zero net emissions by 2050), digitalisation and social cohesion, while preserving its unique democratic model.
Far from just mountains and banks, Switzerland embodies a subtle balance between tradition and modernity, diversity and unity. This laboratory of ideas, both discreet and influential, continues to inspire with its adaptability and its art of living together.
A country to discover, and rediscover, without moderation.
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Latest publications relating to Switzerland:
- Switzerland, Wikipedia