Switzerland

Switzerland, officially the Swiss Confederation, is a landlocked country located in west-central Europe. It is bordered by Italy to the south, France to the west, Germany to the north and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east. Switzerland is geographically divided among the Swiss Plateau, the Alps and the Jura; the Alps occupy the greater part of the territory, whereas most of the country's population of 9 million are concentrated on the plateau, which hosts its largest cities and economic centres, including Zurich, Geneva, and Basel.
switzerland

Some of the key events about Switzerland

  • 1291
    The Swiss Confederation was founded with the signing of the Federal Charter
  • 1515
    Swiss forces suffered a devastating defeat at the Battle of Marignano, ending Swiss expansionism
  • 1798
    French forces invaded and occupied Switzerland, establishing the Helvetic Republic
  • 1815
    Switzerland's neutrality was formally recognized at the Congress of Vienna
  • 1847
    The Sonderbund War, a civil war between Catholic and Protestant cantons, resulted in numerous casualties
  • 1848
    The Swiss Federal Constitution was adopted, establishing Switzerland as a federal state
  • 1863
    The International Committee of the Red Cross was founded in Geneva
  • 1902
    The Simplon Tunnel, then the world's longest railway tunnel, was completed
  • 1920
    Geneva became the headquarters of the League of Nations
  • 1934
    Switzerland experienced a severe economic crisis during the Great Depression
  • 1938
    Switzerland closed its borders to Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi persecution
  • 1945
    Switzerland faced international criticism for its financial dealings with Nazi Germany during World War II
  • 1948
    The World Health Organization (WHO) was established with headquarters in Geneva
  • 1960
    Switzerland became a founding member of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA)
  • 1970
    A Swissair flight crashed near Würenlingen, killing all 47 people on board
  • 1982
    A major fire in the Gotthard Road Tunnel killed 11 people and caused extensive damage
  • 2001
    A disgruntled former employee carried out a mass shooting in the Zug cantonal parliament, killing 14 people
  • 2002
    Switzerland joined the United Nations as a full member
  • 2008
    Switzerland's largest bank, UBS, required a government bailout during the global financial crisis
  • 2016
    The Gotthard Base Tunnel, the world's longest and deepest railway tunnel, was opened

Disclaimer: This material is written based on information taken from open sources, including Wikipedia, news media, podcasts, and other public sources.

Switzerland Latest news

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Swiss Biodiversity Vote: Balancing Nature and Economy

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Russia Rejects Swiss Peace Summit Follow-up, Calls Process "Fraud"

September 21 2024, 07:47 PM  •  4839 views
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French NGO Advisor's Trial in Moscow Postponed Amid Espionage Allegations

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Germany Tightens Borders: New Controls Spark EU Movement Debate

Germany Tightens Borders: New Controls Spark EU Movement Debate

September 16 2024, 12:12 PM  •  125 views
Study Reveals Plateau in Global Life Expectancy Gains

Study Reveals Plateau in Global Life Expectancy Gains

New research indicates a slowdown in life expectancy improvements across countries with the longest-living populations. The study suggests humanity may be approaching biological limits to further significant lifespan increases.

Society, Science • October 7 2024, 09:34 PM  •  341 views
17 European Nations Demand Stricter EU Migration Rules

17 European Nations Demand Stricter EU Migration Rules

Seventeen European countries have called for tougher EU regulations on returning irregular migrants, ahead of a crucial summit. The move reflects growing political pressure for stricter border controls across the continent.

Society, Politics • October 4 2024, 04:26 PM  •  533 views
India's Forex Reserves Surpass $700 Billion, Joining Elite Global Club

India's Forex Reserves Surpass $700 Billion, Joining Elite Global Club

India's foreign exchange reserves hit a record $704. 89 billion, marking a significant economic milestone. This achievement places India among the top four economies globally in terms of forex reserves.

Business, Economics • October 4 2024, 12:35 PM  •  414 views
Ukrainian Soldier's Tragic Fate Unveils POW Struggles in Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Ukrainian Soldier's Tragic Fate Unveils POW Struggles in Russia-Ukraine Conflict

The death of **Oleksandr Ishchenko** in Russian captivity highlights the plight of Ukrainian POWs and their families. His case reveals the challenges in prisoner exchanges and the desperate measures taken to bring loved ones home.

Society, Politics • October 4 2024, 07:05 AM  •  473 views
Iran Claims Self-Defense in Missile Strike on Israel, Warns of Stronger Response

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Iran launches missiles at Israel, citing self-defense. Foreign Minister warns of stronger retaliation if provoked, while expressing optimism for regional stability. UN Security Council action sought.

Society, Politics • October 2 2024, 09:52 AM  •  44 views
Swiss Glaciers Shrink 2.5% in 2024, Continuing Alarming Trend

Swiss Glaciers Shrink 2.5% in 2024, Continuing Alarming Trend

Swiss glaciers lost 2. 5% of their volume in 2024 due to high temperatures and Saharan dust. This follows significant losses in previous years, highlighting the ongoing impact of climate change on Alpine ice.

Society, Science • October 1 2024, 10:10 PM  •  106 views
Zurich Shaken by Rare Attack on Children in Oerlikon District

Zurich Shaken by Rare Attack on Children in Oerlikon District

Three children injured in a violent incident in Zurich's Oerlikon area. Suspect arrested promptly, ensuring public safety. Police investigation ongoing as community seeks answers.

Society, Culture • October 1 2024, 02:07 PM  •  6583 views
Three Children Injured in Zurich Attack, Suspect Apprehended

Three Children Injured in Zurich Attack, Suspect Apprehended

In Zurich's Oerlikon district, three children were assaulted by a man on Tuesday. Police swiftly arrested the suspect, ensuring public safety, but details remain limited.

Society, Culture • October 1 2024, 01:48 PM  •  3803 views
Swiss Glaciers Face Rapid Melt Despite Heavy Snowfall in 2024

Swiss Glaciers Face Rapid Melt Despite Heavy Snowfall in 2024

Swiss glaciers lost 2. 5% volume in 2024 despite heavy snowfall. Record ice losses in August due to high temperatures and Saharan dust. Alpine glaciers could lose 80% mass by 2100.

Society, Science • October 1 2024, 07:19 AM  •  576 views
Alpine Border Shift: Melting Glaciers Redraw Italy-Switzerland Frontier

Alpine Border Shift: Melting Glaciers Redraw Italy-Switzerland Frontier

Climate change forces Italy and Switzerland to redraw their Alpine border as glaciers melt. The 100-meter adjustment near Zermatt highlights the broader impact of global warming on mountain landscapes and international boundaries.

Politics, Science • October 1 2024, 12:53 AM  •  390 views
CERN to Halt Collaboration with Russian Scientists Amid Ukraine Conflict

CERN to Halt Collaboration with Russian Scientists Amid Ukraine Conflict

CERN will cease cooperation with Russian-affiliated scientists due to the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The decision affects up to 500 researchers and marks a significant shift in international scientific collaboration.

Politics, Science • September 30 2024, 09:10 PM  •  119 views
Ex-Gunvor Employee Faces Corruption Trial in Swiss Court

Ex-Gunvor Employee Faces Corruption Trial in Swiss Court

A former Gunvor employee is on trial in Switzerland for allegedly bribing Congolese officials to secure oil contracts. The rare public case sheds light on corruption in the commodities trading sector.

Business, Politics • September 30 2024, 01:02 PM  •  6182 views
New SNB Chief Faces Credit Suisse Fallout Amid Calls for Reform

New SNB Chief Faces Credit Suisse Fallout Amid Calls for Reform

Martin Schlegel takes helm at Swiss National Bank as parliamentary probe into Credit Suisse collapse nears conclusion. Critics question authorities' crisis management, while Schlegel pledges continuity in monetary policy.

Business, Economics, Politics • September 30 2024, 04:06 AM  •  961 views
NYC's Massive Scale: Challenges and Corruption in America's Largest City

NYC's Massive Scale: Challenges and Corruption in America's Largest City

New York City's immense population and complex governance face scrutiny as Mayor Eric Adams is indicted. The city's scale, comparable to nations, presents unique challenges in management and political integrity.

Society, Economics, Politics • September 27 2024, 10:44 AM  •  16 views
Switzerland Approves Wolf Culls in Five Cantons Amid Growing Controversy

Switzerland Approves Wolf Culls in Five Cantons Amid Growing Controversy

Switzerland authorizes wolf culling in five districts due to livestock attacks, sparking debate between farmers and conservationists. The decision comes as wolf populations surge, raising concerns about ecosystem balance.

Society, Politics • September 27 2024, 10:29 AM  •  70 views
Sudan Army Launches Major Offensive in Khartoum Amid Ongoing Conflict

Sudan Army Launches Major Offensive in Khartoum Amid Ongoing Conflict

Sudan's army initiated a significant operation in Khartoum, employing artillery and air strikes. The action precedes General al-Burhan's UN address, amidst a 17-month conflict causing widespread humanitarian crisis.

Society, Politics • September 27 2024, 09:56 AM  •  29 views
France Considers Tougher Immigration Laws After Student's Murder

France Considers Tougher Immigration Laws After Student's Murder

French government signals openness to stricter immigration policies following the murder of a 19-year-old student. The case involving a Moroccan suspect sparks debate on security and expulsion procedures.

Society, Politics • September 25 2024, 11:13 AM  •  447 views
Fortescue and Liebherr Join Forces for $2.8B Zero-Emission Mining Fleet

Fortescue and Liebherr Join Forces for $2.8B Zero-Emission Mining Fleet

Fortescue partners with Liebherr in a $2. 8 billion deal to create a massive zero-emission mining fleet of 475 vehicles. This move aligns with Fortescue's goal to eliminate emissions from Australian operations by 2030.

Business, Economics, Science • September 24 2024, 11:28 PM  •  449 views
Novel Suicide Pod Incident Prompts Police Investigation in Switzerland

Novel Suicide Pod Incident Prompts Police Investigation in Switzerland

Swiss authorities detain individuals following reported use of untested "Sarco" suicide capsule. Incident near Merishausen sparks criminal probe into assisted suicide case.

Society, Science • September 24 2024, 10:40 AM  •  3113 views
China Dominates Foreign Components in Russian Weapons Used in Ukraine

China Dominates Foreign Components in Russian Weapons Used in Ukraine

Ukraine reports 60% of foreign parts in Russian weapons come from China. Western components also found in surveillance equipment, drones, and missiles despite sanctions.

Economics, Politics, Science • September 24 2024, 07:46 AM  •  537 views
Fact Check: WEF Did Not Predict 6 Billion Deaths by 2025

Fact Check: WEF Did Not Predict 6 Billion Deaths by 2025

Reuters debunks false claims about a World Economic Forum document predicting mass population decline. The misinformation originated from an unreliable source and lacks credible evidence.

Society, Politics • September 23 2024, 01:26 PM  •  517 views
Swiss Voters Reject Biodiversity Initiative in National Referendum

Swiss Voters Reject Biodiversity Initiative in National Referendum

Swiss citizens voted against a proposal to enhance natural habitat protection. The initiative, aimed at increasing conservation efforts, was rejected by over 60% of voters, highlighting tensions between environmental concerns and economic interests.

Society, Politics, Science • September 22 2024, 02:00 PM  •  4828 views
Swiss Biodiversity Vote: Balancing Nature and Economy

Swiss Biodiversity Vote: Balancing Nature and Economy

Switzerland faces a crucial referendum on biodiversity protection. The initiative proposes increased funding for conservation, but faces opposition due to economic concerns. Polls show declining support as voting day approaches.

Politics, Science • September 22 2024, 07:05 AM  •  1175 views
Russia Rejects Swiss Peace Summit Follow-up, Calls Process "Fraud"

Russia Rejects Swiss Peace Summit Follow-up, Calls Process "Fraud"

Russia refuses to participate in any follow-up to the Swiss-organized peace summit, labeling it as "fraud. " The country criticizes Ukraine and Western backers, setting conditions for potential talks.

Society, Politics • September 21 2024, 07:47 PM  •  4839 views
Olympic Gymnastics Medal Dispute: Jordan Chiles Appeals Bronze Reversal

Olympic Gymnastics Medal Dispute: Jordan Chiles Appeals Bronze Reversal

A controversy over the women's floor final bronze medal at the Paris Olympics has led to a legal battle. Jordan Chiles appeals to Switzerland's Supreme Court after being stripped of her medal due to a timing dispute.

Society, Sports • September 19 2024, 02:25 PM  •  491 views
Sudan's Military Leaders Signal Openness to Peace Talks Amid Ongoing Conflict

Sudan's Military Leaders Signal Openness to Peace Talks Amid Ongoing Conflict

Sudan's army and RSF leaders respond to U. S. President Biden's call for renewed peace negotiations, expressing willingness to engage in dialogue despite ongoing blame game.

Society, Politics • September 19 2024, 12:28 AM  •  790 views
Zelenskiy Unveils Comprehensive "Victory Plan" for Ukraine's Peace and Strength

Zelenskiy Unveils Comprehensive "Victory Plan" for Ukraine's Peace and Strength

Ukrainian President Zelenskiy announces completion of "Victory Plan" aimed at achieving peace while maintaining Ukraine's strength. Plan to be presented to U.S. President Biden at upcoming UN meetings.

Society, Politics • September 18 2024, 09:38 PM  •  741 views
French NGO Advisor's Trial in Moscow Postponed Amid Espionage Allegations

French NGO Advisor's Trial in Moscow Postponed Amid Espionage Allegations

Laurent Vinatier, a French citizen, faces trial in Moscow for allegedly gathering sensitive military information. The case, highlighting tensions between Russia and the West, has been adjourned until mid-October.

Society, Politics • September 16 2024, 02:22 PM  •  510 views
WTO Chief Okonjo-Iweala Seeks Second Term, Focuses on Unfinished Business

WTO Chief Okonjo-Iweala Seeks Second Term, Focuses on Unfinished Business

WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala announces bid for second term, emphasizing focus on delivering results. Key priorities include fisheries subsidies and agriculture negotiations.

Economics, Politics • September 16 2024, 02:20 PM  •  404 views
Germany Tightens Borders: New Controls Spark EU Movement Debate

Germany Tightens Borders: New Controls Spark EU Movement Debate

Germany implements temporary border checks with western and northern neighbors to address irregular migration and crime. The move, affecting five countries, raises concerns about free movement within the EU.

Society, Politics • September 16 2024, 12:12 PM  •  125 views