Swiss Stories

GoGermany startup

20 promising Swiss startups

Economics

Switzerland may be a small country but its promising start-up scene has gained international recognition.
freddy nock tightrope walk near Pontresina

Swiss extreme athletes

Society
Mountains, valleys, lakes and rivers give Switzerland its pleasing landscape. Some people go for a stroll or a quick swim. But for some, grilling a 'cervelas' over the campfire just isn't enough.

by Karine Lamon

“Mayaguana” bag © Exuma

Seven designers setting the style in Switzerland

Economics
The Swiss fashion and accessory scene has produced its fair share of designers, who are able to give expression to new and unexpected ideas. A passion for all things Swiss is driven by fashion events that put the spotlight on these designers’ craft and by the country’s art schools, which have become a true breeding ground for up-and-coming designers.

by Vanessa Hambaryan

portrait sarah marquis

Sarah Marquis, always on the move

Environment
Books, lectures, and of course expeditions: Swiss explorer Sarah Marquis never stops. We caught up with her before she hit the road again.
Le violon à l’honneur à Genève

Violins take centre stage in Geneva

Society
For the first time in its history, the world's leading international competition for young violinists will be held in Switzerland. The Menuhin Competition, known as the 'Olympics of the Violin' will see the 44 top young violinists worldwide compete in Geneva from 12–22 April. This year two Swiss artists – Sumina Studer and Anatol János Toth – have made the competition, selected from over 300 young violinists from all over the world.
epis ble

Climate change: A challenge for Swiss agronomic research

Environment
Confronted with a changing climate, Swiss agronomic research is working to ensure food security.
Modern direct democracy

Modern direct democracy

History
When it comes to political co-determination by citizens, Switzerland is the undisputed world champion. More than one third of all referendums ever held at national level worldwide have taken place in Switzerland. The historical origins of direct democracy in Switzerland are just as interesting as the continuing topical nature of citizens' rights themselves. We provide below an overview.

by Bruno Kaufmann