Switzerland is distinguished from other countries by its remarkable geographical location in the heart of Europe, making it one of the richest and most stable countries in the world. This stability means that Switzerland can only engage in armed conflict if it is attacked, and it can use its forces solely for self-defense and internal security. Switzerland enjoys the highest level of reliability in the world, despite a general decline in trust globally in recent years.
The Edelman Trust Barometer of 2018 indicates that "of 28 markets, the United States experienced the largest decline in recorded trust ever, unlike Switzerland. The primary reason for this is the failure of governments to respond to several prevailing events today, such as the refugee crisis, corruption scandals, and mismanagement". Is Switzerland an exception?
When it comes to public trust in government, business, and media institutions, Switzerland is one of the rare exceptions among its peers. As noted in the 2017 Government at a Glance report by the OECD, "approximately 80% of Swiss citizens trust the federal government. This figure is about double the OECD average of 42%, and represents a 17% increase compared to 2007." The Edelman Trust Barometer found that companies headquartered in Switzerland rank second in trust after those based in Canada, despite some dubious business transactions.
What sets Switzerland apart from other countries is the government's ability to assist weak or small companies, or those beginning to falter in the market. Successful governments like Switzerland’s implement mechanisms and plans for change and support the economy to recover by working with both small and large companies. Therefore, the Swiss people believe that the geographical location of a company in their homeland is sufficient for the institution’s success and continuity.
So why do the Swiss people trust state institutions? Firstly, because the Swiss government instills high confidence in private institutions, providing them with expertise and integrity simultaneously. Secondly, due to the cooperation between the two parties, that is, the company and the government, to develop the institution and the stability of the state it relies upon. This explains the production of a strong and stable currency. Hence, the Swiss people enjoy security and stability—socially and politically.
Swiss Police Enjoy Citizens’ Approval
In terms of security, the Swiss police enjoy significant trust from their citizens, ranking first in trust compared to other countries, according to the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich. The institute confirmed that the primary reason for this is "the training of police officers during their studies to follow behaviors that build trust between them and the public."
Strength and Stability of the Swiss Currency
The "Swiss franc" is a fundamental symbol of wealth for many peoples, especially among rappers who have started to celebrate the Swiss franc as a symbol of wealth in their albums and performances. The Swiss franc has become a symbol of luxury alongside champagne, luxury cars, and jewelry.
The value of the Swiss franc increased after 2000, specifically following the European debt crisis and the significant easing of monetary policy by the U.S. Federal Reserve. Investors turned to the Swiss franc as a safe haven after that period and the American monetary policies, which led to a reluctance to trade in dollars.
The significant increase in the value of the Swiss franc after 2015 was primarily due to the cessation of its peg to the euro, which had been set at 1.20 Swiss francs per euro. The depreciation of the euro was anticipated after the quantitative easing policies followed by the European Central Bank, compelling the Swiss National Bank to print more money, which was later used to purchase euros to maintain the set value of the euro/franc currency pair and prevent it from dropping below 1.20.
Life is Safe in Switzerland
Switzerland is considered one of the safest countries in the world, evident in the significantly low crime rates. This can be attributed to its strict laws established by the Swiss government, along with the presence of a highly trusted police force to protect the lives of its citizens and ensure their safety and security.
What distinguishes Swiss communities from others is their lack of unemployment and illiteracy unlike many others, as they consider access to food and education essential, which are available and accessible to everyone.
Important Events in Swiss History
- 1515 - Swiss defeat at the Battle of Marignano and their turn to neutrality.
- 1874 - The amended constitution allowed for direct democracy through referenda.
- 1914-1918 - Switzerland organized Red Cross units during World War I.
- 1919 - The Treaty of Versailles confirmed Switzerland's neutrality.
- 1920 - Switzerland joined the League of Nations, headquartered in Geneva.
- 1923 - Established a customs union with Liechtenstein.
- 1939-1945 - The Federal Council declared neutrality at the outset of World War II and refused to join the United Nations.
- 1959 - Switzerland became a founding member of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).
- 1963 - Switzerland joined the Council of Europe.
- 1967 - Right-wing groups launched a campaign to restrict the entry of foreign workers.
- 1971 - Women were granted the right to vote in federal elections.
- 1985 - Women were granted equal rights with men in marriage.
- 1992 - Switzerland joined the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.
- 2002 - Switzerland joined the United Nations.
