Switzerland (officially known as the Swiss Confederation) is located at the intersection of Western, Central, and Southern Europe. The territory covers an area of 41,277 square kilometers. It shares borders with Italy, France, Austria, Liechtenstein, and Germany. Established during the Late Middle Ages.
The country is situated between the Alps, the Jura, and the Swiss Plateau. It does not have access to the sea. The major rivers include the Rhone, the Rhine, the Limmat, and the Aare. Significant lakes include Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich, Lake Thun, Lake Lucerne, Lake Biel, and Lake Neuchâtel. These bodies of water hold 6% of Europe's fresh water reserves. The majority of the population resides on the plateau.
Switzerland has a federal republic form of government. It consists of 26 cantons (20 cantons and 6 half-cantons), each with its own constitution and legislation. The currency is the Swiss Franc, and the official languages are German, Italian, French, and Romansh. The country adheres to a policy of armed neutrality and has not engaged in military conflicts since 1815. It serves as a platform for international humanitarian organizations. For instance, although not a member of the European Union, Switzerland participates in the Schengen Area. It is considered one of the most developed countries in the world.
Climate Conditions
The predominant climate in most of Switzerland is continental, varying according to altitude. Temperatures in spring and summer range from +20 to +25°C, while winters are moderately cold. The diversity of weather conditions is due to climatic zones. For example, the Ticino region has a Mediterranean climate. The warm Föhn wind influences temperature fluctuations, often causing avalanches in the mountains.
The country experiences mild frosts and no extreme heat, making its climate generally favorable. Variations are influenced by the presence of the Alpine massif. In the south and southwest, mountains and foothills dominate, with temperatures ranging from -10°C in winter to +20°C in summer. In the north and northwest, the weather is influenced by the Atlantic. Major cities like Bern, Geneva, Lucerne, and Zurich are located in these areas, with temperatures ranging from -6°C in winter to +26°C in summer.
Tourism in Switzerland is popular year-round, offering skiing and therapeutic relaxation. Tourists also visit cities and lakes. The ski season runs from November to March, while the beach season lasts from June to August.
Despite its moderate climate, Switzerland experiences seismic activity. There are two earthquakes daily, although they are barely felt by the population. The last significant earthquake damage occurred in 1991 when a magnitude 5 earthquake struck the town of Visp.
Weather conditions have influenced the development of animal husbandry. The country is known for its meat and dairy production, including the production of its famous cheese.
Demographics
According to the 2020 census, Switzerland's population was 667,100 people. Women typically give birth to their first child at an average age of 30.7 years. The average life expectancy is 84 years, ranking sixth among all countries in the world.
The national composition is diverse due to the presence of several linguistic groups. About 90% of the population consider themselves Swiss, but they do not share a common language. The largest linguistic group is the Swiss Germans, while the smallest is Romansh.
The relationship between the "French" and "German" parts of the country is interesting. Problems arose after the Franco-speaking areas were annexed in the 19th century, leading to occasional conflicts between them.
Switzerland attracts immigrants. According to 2019 data, the number of immigrants and their descendants reached 2.6 million people, or about 30% of the population.
The state is considered secular, but the majority of the population identifies as religious. Catholicism, Protestantism, and Islam are the most prevalent religions. Representatives of other faiths make up less than 2% of the population, while 29.5% support atheism. The largest religious organizations are the Swiss Evangelical Church Federation among Protestants and the Diocese of Basel among Catholics. Islam is mainly preached by Turks and Kosovars.
Economy
Switzerland is a wealthy country with a high standard of living, known for its industrial sector and developed agriculture. However, it has almost no mineral resources. It consistently ranks among countries with competitive economies due to its advantageous geographic location and accessibility. International trade routes pass through the country. Inflation in 2023 was 2.2%, slowing compared to 2022.
Most people work in the service and manufacturing sectors. Industries such as mechanical engineering, chemical manufacturing, agriculture, forestry, banking, insurance, trade, hospitality, and tourism are highly sought after. The tourism sector plays a significant role.
The country's neutral stance on wars helps it avoid turmoil and maintain stability. However, international trade helps maintain connections with the rest of the world. Pharmaceutical products, machinery, electronics, vehicles, jewelry, watches, clothing, footwear, and textiles are exported and imported continuously.
Among the advantages of the economy are highly skilled labor, innovations in mass production (such as Swatch watches), and banking secrecy, which attracts foreign clients. Large enterprises for gold refining are located in the country, facilitating constant imports and exports of precious metals.
Freedom of Travel
Swiss citizenship allows free movement within the European Union and the European Free Trade Association. Foreigners can obtain dual citizenship if desired. With this document, one can visit 177 countries, with 122 not requiring a visa for entry. Additionally, 47 countries offer visas upon arrival, and 8 offer electronic visas. In the global ranking, the Swiss passport holds the second position.