Switzerland has a long tradition of neutrality in its international relations, and has kept out of foreign conflict, including both World Wars, since its neutral stance was declared in 1815.
Though it had been inhabited by Celtic tribes for thousands of years prior, Switzerland’s modern history really began with the founding of the Swiss Confederation (of three cantons) in 1291. The country gained independence from the Roman Empire in the late-15th century and was replaced by a sovereign government in the late-19th century, a unique system which allows its citizens to vote regularly.
In the 21st century Switzerland is one of the world’s major financial hubs, with a flourishing banking industry. Despite being surrounded by EU member states, Switzerland itself is not a member, following a negative vote in a referendum in 2001.
Nine years earlier, membership of the European Economic Area was also rejected by referendum. Switzerland did, however, join the United Nations in 2002, and relations with the EU are now based on a wide range of bilateral agreements.
As a result of a popular vote, Switzerland joined the Schengen treaty and Dublin Convention in 2005, bringing the country into Europe's passport-free zone and increasing co-operation on crime and asylum issues. A further referendum the same year opened the job market to workers from the 10 newest EU member countries.
However, in 2014 the Swiss voted to curb mass immigration with quotas in an initiative presented by the populist Swiss People’s Party – a move that would violate the country’s prior agreement with the EU regarding the free movement of persons. The government has yet to implement limits on immigration, but the results have put a strain on relations between the EU and Switzerland.
Seats in the Swiss Parliament, based in Bern, are allocated by proportional representation and by canton size. The government is made up of a five-party coalition and the 2015 elections saw a shift to the right, with the conservative Swiss People’s Party winning just under 30% of the vote.
Did you know?
• Women weren’t given the right to vote until 1971.
• In Switzerland, it’s against the law to keep a lone guinea pig; these sociable rodents must have a companion.
• Switzerland has enough nuclear bunkers to shelter every citizen. Geneva city authorities often use them as homeless shelters during winter.
• Bern is home to a disturbing 500-year old sculpture, which depicts an ogre-like man eating a baby mid-bite. Weirdly enough, no is sure exactly why it is there.
Roman Catholic (48%), Protestant (44%), others (8%).
Social conventions:It is customary to give flowers to the hostess when invited for a meal, but never give chrysanthemums or white asters as they are considered funeral flowers. Informal wear is widely acceptable. First-class restaurants, hotel dining rooms and important social occasions may warrant jackets and ties. Black tie is usually specified when required.
German (64% of the population) in central and eastern areas, French (20%) in the west and Italian (7%) in the south. Romansch (1%), the fourth national language, is spoken in parts of the southeast. English (as a second or third language) is widely spoken.
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