What associations first arise in a person who hears the word “Switzerland”? Watches, cheese, chocolate, penknives, banks, mountains, alpine meadows... and, perhaps, that’s all. But this country is very curious and unusual. In this article we will look at some interesting facts about Switzerland.
A little about the country
Switzerland is a very unique state, small even by European standards, which, however, contains a lot of interesting and unusual things. According to the inhabitants of this country, its main asset is nature: eternal glaciers, mountain ranges, alpine meadows, blue lakes and waterfalls. Here, in a relatively small area, there are 1,484 lakes. Many of them are of glacial origin - these are reservoirs of unique beauty and transparency. This can be judged even from the photos given in the article. Switzerland is unusual in that no matter where you are in the country, a maximum of twenty kilometers from you will be beautiful lake, suitable for swimming. Mountains occupy two-thirds of its territory. In this regard, the state we are considering is recognized as the most mountainous in Europe. Approximately 14 percent of the country's area is occupied by nature reserves and parks in which pristine nature has been preserved.
Political structure
Even looking at the political structure of this country, you can find interesting facts about Switzerland. It turns out that it is the only confederation state in the world. This has been the case for a long time. In the Middle Ages it actually had a confederal structure. Modern Switzerland is actually a federal republic. Another interesting fact is that this country does not officially have a capital. However this function performed by the city of Bern. In Switzerland, the president is elected for a one-year term. And, what is most interesting, he is appointed in rotation, from seven members of the federal council.
Socio-political situation
This country has four official languages: French, German, Italian and The rarest language in Switzerland is Romansh, spoken by less than one percent of the country's population. Despite the fact that this state is located in and is not a member of the European Union, there are a huge number of offices and headquarters of various international organizations located here, including the Red Cross, UN, WHO, WTO, FIFA, FIBA, CERN, IOC and others.
Referendums in Switzerland
Another interesting fact is that the country’s legislation allows for a referendum to be held every Sunday. However, in practice they are carried out only a few times a year. As a result of one such referendum, the construction of new minarets was prohibited in the state. There are only six of these in Switzerland. architectural structures. However, they cannot perform their main function (announcing the collection for prayer), as this will lead to a violation
Let's look at some interesting information about this country.
1. Switzerland is located in the middle part of Western Europe and has no access to the sea, but has a very large fleet. Home The Lake Geneva Navigation Company is the owner of the largest number of inland water ships in Europe.
2. Military service is compulsory for all men in the country under the age of thirty. Its duration is 260 days, but they are distributed over ten years. According to the law, you can “opt out” of service; to do this, you will have to transfer three percent of all your income to the state fund for 30 years.
3. In Switzerland, before the advent of mobile phones, singing without words - yodeling - was used as a means of communication.
4. In Geneva, on the embankment, there is the largest flower clock on the planet. Their dial has a diameter of five meters and consists of 6.5 thousand fresh flowers.
5. In order to cut down a tree in Switzerland, you must obtain a special permit, even if the plant grows on your own plot of land.
6. Porcini mushrooms grow in abundance in this country, but no one collects or eats them.
There's a lot to learn here
By collecting interesting facts about Switzerland, you can also note its achievements.
1. In this state, the world's highest concrete dam (285 meters), the longest tunnel on the planet (57 kilometers) and the highest cable car on the continent (3820 meters) were built.
2. Despite the fact that the country of Switzerland is two-thirds mountainous, it is famous for its export of milk and cheese. It is originally a peasant state, but produces the best watch movements in the world. One hundred and fifty years ago, Switzerland was one of the poorest countries in Europe, and today it is the kingdom of global banking corporations.
3. The citizens of this country are considered the most inventive in the world. After all, there are 2,286 patents per million inhabitants in Switzerland. The closest competitors are the Dutch - 1427 patents; South Koreans - 1139 patents; and the Japanese - 1118 patents.
4. The average salary here is 5,000 francs (3,900 US dollars), and the minimum is 3,500 francs (2,700 dollars). Inflation in this country does not exceed one percent per year.
5. Medicine in Switzerland is very modern and of very high quality, but it is paid and includes compulsory insurance. According to citizens of this country who have visited, the level of medical care is at the level of the Stone Age compared to the “homeland of cheese.”
Switzerland: interesting facts for children
Children in Switzerland start attending school at the age of four, but study only four days a week. Interesting fact is free higher education not only for citizens of the country, but also for foreigners. Swiss private schools are considered the best in the world. Tuition here costs from 25 thousand per year (800 thousand rubles).
A little about lakes
1. Lake Leman (Geneva) is the second largest in Europe.
2. Lucerne, or Vierwaldstättersee. This lake is, without a doubt, the most picturesque in the country. It is surrounded by mountain peaks covered with a white blanket, and magnificent emerald forests stretch along its banks.
3. Lake Lugansk is located in the south of the country, on the border with Italy.
4. Maggiore-Locarno. This lake is characterized by a mild Mediterranean climate, as well as lush vegetation and an Italianate landscape.
5. Murten is a small calm body of water with a regular oval shape. It is a favorite vacation spot for residents of surrounding towns.
6. Lakes Brienz and Thun. These stunningly beautiful reservoirs are located in the very center of Switzerland, in the foothills of the Alps. All conditions have been created here for active sports: alpine skiing, windsurfing, sailing. On Lake Brienz there is a stunning Giessbach waterfall, which falls from glaciers directly into the reservoir.
7. Neuchâtel reservoir. It's beautiful mountain lake, framed by the low peaks of the Jura, is located in the western part of the country, in the Valley of the Hours, close to the French border.
8. Zurich reservoir. This is not the largest lake, but Switzerland itself is located on its shore, which is the financial and economic capital of the country.
This amazing Switzerland
1. Mountains. The geographical map of Switzerland shows 48 peaks that rise to an altitude of 4000 meters - the most of any alpine country. Many different records are associated with these monumental natural structures. For example, here is the highest railway station in Europe - Jungfraujoch (3454 meters); the coolest funiculars, mountain trains and, of course, the longest glacier in Europe - Aletsch (23 kilometers).
2. The slowest train on Earth. The panoramic Glacier Express covers 291 kilometers in eight hours. Its average speed is 42 kilometers per hour. Despite this, passengers hardly have time to capture all the beauty of the wondrous country. On its way, the express rises to a height of 2033 meters, overcomes 91 tunnels and 291 bridges.
3. Sparkling holiday. Zurich hosts Europe's largest indoor Christmas market every year. There is a Christmas tree here, which is decorated with more than seven thousand Swarovski crystals. At the market you can buy original gifts, handmade souvenirs, and delicious treats.
4. No smog. Switzerland has twelve ski resorts. The movement of motor vehicles is strictly prohibited on them. Here, even city services use electric cars.
5. Hotter. Switzerland has the highest and largest thermal spa resort - Leukerbad. Every day, more than 3.9 million liters of water is pumped into thirty local swimming pools, the temperature of which is 51 degrees Celsius.
The official name is the Swiss Confederation (Schweizerische Eidgenossenschaft, Confederation Suisse, Confederazione Svizzera, Swiss Confederation). Located in Central Europe. Area 41.29 thousand km2, population 7.3 million people. (2002). Official languages are German, French, Italian. The capital is Bern (112.5 thousand people, 2001). National holiday - Day of the creation of the Swiss Confederation on August 1 (since 1291). The monetary unit is the Swiss franc.
Member of 67 international organizations, incl. UN (since 2002), OECD, UNCTAD, WTO, etc.
Sights of Switzerland
Geography of Switzerland
Located between 8°00′ east longitude and 47°00′ north latitude. The country is landlocked. It borders on the east with Austria (164 km) and Liechtenstein (41 km), on the north with Germany (334 km), on the west with France (573 km), on the south with Italy (740 km). The country's landscape is mainly mountainous: 58.5% of the entire territory (south, southeast, center) is occupied by the Alps, 10% by the Jura Mountains (northwest), the rest falls on the Swiss Plateau (Mittelland), which is located between two main mountain arrays. The highest mountains: Peak Dufour (4638 m), Finsteraarhorn peak (4275 m).
Main rivers: Rhine (within the country - 375 km), Rhone (264 km), Ticino (91 km) - a tributary of the river. Po, Inn (104 km) - tributary of the Danube River. There are a large number of lakes on the Swiss Plateau, the largest: Geneva (581 km2), Constance (538.5 km2). The country's soils are not naturally fertile. In high mountain areas the soil cover is not continuous and is replete with rubble. The Swiss Plateau has brown forest and alluvial soils that are relatively fertile.
In the plant world, the influence of vertical zoning is clearly expressed. Up to an altitude of 800 m, cultivated vegetation (meadows, gardens, vineyards) predominates. At an altitude of 0.8-1.8 thousand meters there are deciduous and coniferous forests (they occupy a quarter of the entire territory of the country). Above 2 thousand meters alpine meadows begin.
The fauna is included within the European-Siberian subregion of the Palearctic region. Found (mainly in nature reserves): bear, wolf, hare, deer and mountain goat. In the highlands there are chamois and alpine marmot. The country's climate is also characterized by vertical zonation. On the Swiss Plateau - moderately warm and humid; in the valleys of the southern slope of the Alps - it approaches the Mediterranean; V high mountains- cold and wet (snow usually does not melt even in summer).
Mineral resources include: hydro resources, timber and rock salt.
Population of Switzerland
Dynamics of population growth since mid. 1950s quite active - the increase occurred by 46% (in 1950 - 5 million people). At the same time, the annual increase reaches 2.4‰ (2002). Net influx of immigrants - 1.37‰. Birth rate 9.84‰, mortality 8.79‰, infant mortality 4.42 people. per 1000 newborns. The average life expectancy is 79.86 years, incl. men 76.98 years, women 82.89 years (2002).
Age structure of the population: 0-14 years - 16.8%, 15-64 years - 67.7%, 65 years and older - 15.5%. The average ratio of men to women is 0.97, but at the age of 65 years and older women predominate - 0.69. The educational level of the population is high. Over the age of 15, 99% of the country's population can read and write. Ethnic composition: Germans (65%), French (18%), Italians (10%) and Romansh (1%). Spoken languages: German-Swiss (High German dialect) - 63.7%, Franco-Swiss (Provençal French dialect) - 19.2%, Italo-Swiss (Lombard dialect of Italian) - 7.6%, Romansh (Graubund dialect) Romanized Rhineland tribes) - 0.6%.
Among believers, Catholics have a slight advantage (46.1%) compared to Protestants (40%).
History of Switzerland
On the territory of modern Switzerland in the 2nd century. BC lived the Celtic tribe of the Helvetians (after their name the country was called Helvetia in ancient times). Then these lands were conquered by the troops of Julius Caesar (58 BC) and were included in the Roman Empire. In the 3rd-5th centuries. AD The German tribe of the Alemanni began to constantly invade this territory, gradually occupying the entire eastern part. In the 2nd half. 5th century the western regions went to the Burgundians. In the 6th century. these territories became part of the Frankish state. After its collapse (843), the eastern part went to Germany (which later became the core of the Holy Roman Empire), and the western part to Burgundy (this division mainly corresponded to linguistic and ethnic differences).
In 1033 both parts were included in the Holy Roman Empire. Large feudal estates (counties and duchies) began to appear. In the east, the Habsburgs seized dominant positions, in the west - the Savoy counts. But some influential cities (Geneva, Zurich and Bern), as well as the “forest cantons” (Schwyz, Uri, Unterwalden) managed to achieve special imperial rights, i.e. gain actual independence.
The Swiss Confederation arose in 1291 as a result of an alliance treaty between the three "forest cantons" to jointly fight for independence against Habsburg rule. Another attempt to subjugate them again ended in the defeat of the imperial troops at Margarten (in 1315), after which other cantons (Lucerne, Zurich, Zug, Glarus and Bern) began to join the alliance of the winners. Thus, a union of 8 cantons emerged, which continued the struggle for independence. In 1388 the Habsburgs were forced to make peace on terms very favorable to the Swiss Union.
In long and almost continuous wars, Swiss military skill reached high level. In the 14th-16th centuries. the confederation even became the main supplier of mercenary soldiers in the armies of many leading European countries. In the end 15th century Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I made another attempt to make the union of the Swiss cantons dependent again. However, this Swiss (or Swabian) war ended in the complete defeat of the imperial troops. In the concluded agreement (dated 1511), the Swiss Union completely dissolved its connection with the empire and was defined as an independent state (this act received international recognition in the Peace of Westphalia in 1648).
In subsequent years, the territorial expansion of the confederation continued (by 1798 it already included 13 cantons). The process of gradual organizational restructuring of the union began. Within the confederation, there was no permanent central governing body; it was replaced by periodically held Sejms, in which only “full-fledged cantons” had the right to vote. Along with them, there were “allied lands” (Geneva, St. Galen, etc.) and even “subordinate territories” (Aargau, Ticino, etc.). The latter were completely powerless. Contradictions between the participants in the “union of cantons” led to constant struggle and even armed clashes.
First attempt at creation central government and the proclamation of the equality of all cantons was undertaken within the framework of the Helvetic Republic (1798), created with the assistance of France. But after the collapse of the Napoleonic Empire, the Swiss Diet adopted (in 1814) a new version of the union treaty on the confederation of the cantons, which again significantly limited the competencies of the central government. Congress of Vienna(1814 - 15) approved this treaty, the principle of “permanent neutrality” of Switzerland, as well as the accession of new cantons to the confederation (their total number increased to 22).
At the same time, the supreme power, which was again transferred to the Sejm, became less and less effective. In 1832, 7 of the most economically developed cantons (Zurich, Bern, etc.) created the so-called. “Siebenbund” (“Union of Seven”), which demanded a revision of the union treaty (dated 1814). In contrast to it, in 1845 the “Sonderbund” (“Special Union”) arose, which also included 7 cantons, but economically less developed ones with a feudal-clerical society (Schwyz, Uri, etc.). Contradictions grew between the opposing alliances and even a civil war began (November - December 1847), which ended in the victory of the bourgeois forces.
In 1848, a new Constitution of the country was adopted, on the basis of which the Swiss Confederation turned from a fragile union of cantons into a single union state. Instead of the Diet, a Federal Assembly was established, consisting of the National Council and the Council of State (Council of the Cantons). Executive power was transferred to the Federal Council (i.e. the government). In 1874, changes were made to the Constitution that significantly expanded the competence of the central government, incl. allowing the establishment of state supervision over the activities of the church.
The completed centralization contributed to faster economic development of the country. A single internal market emerged (customs, post office were united, the monetary system was unified, etc.). Light industry, watch production began to grow at a rapid pace, and eventually. 19th century the emergence of mechanical engineering began. The main prerequisites for the industrialization of the country were the accumulation of capital as a result of intermediary operations in the international financial sphere, a significant influx of technical intelligentsia and skilled labor from neighboring leading European countries. A significant role was played by growing income from the resort and tourism sector, which gradually turned into one of the leading sectors of the national economy.
A large-scale change in the general appearance of the country (as a “quiet and cozy alpine paradise”) was facilitated by increased activity in the formation of new transport infrastructure. Great value acquired railway construction, the opening of two major tunnels: St. Gotthard (1882) and Simplon (1906). The country gradually turned into the most important European transport crossroads (especially between the North and South of the continent). This factor turned out to be one of the most important in the formation of new “production niches” of the country, focused mainly on world markets. Particularly intensive development of specialized branches of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and chemistry (especially pharmaceuticals) began.
During the 1st and 2nd World Wars, Switzerland remained neutral, but its Armed Forces were very active in protecting national borders (for example, during the 2nd World War, over 200 aircraft were shot down (or interned) in the country's airspace warring countries). Of course, during these wars the country received huge income from fulfilling not only large production orders, but also large-scale intermediary financial transactions.
Modern Switzerland is one of the most highly developed countries in the world. Reliance on the basic principles of “eternal neutrality” allowed her to create an effective democratic society characterized by political stability and economic prosperity. Switzerland has made a particularly significant contribution to the formation of the religious and educational image of modern Europe and the whole world.
Government and political system of Switzerland
Switzerland is a federal republic, the country has a Constitution adopted on May 29, 1874. Switzerland includes 26 cantons (Aargau, Appenzell Ausser - Roden, Appenzell Inner - Roden, Basel - Landscape, Basel - Stadt, Bern, Friborg, Geneva, Glarus, Graubunden, Jura, Lucerne, Neuchâtel, Nidwalden, Obwalden, St. Gallen, Schaffhausen, Schwyz, Solothurn, Torgau, Ticino, Uri, Wallis, Vaud, Zug, Zurich). The largest cities (thousand people): Bern, Zurich (337.9), Geneva (175), Basel (166), Lausanne (114.9).
The principles of public administration of the country differ in some features. The head of state and government (i.e. the Federal Council) is the president. Since January 2003, this position has been occupied by P. Couchepin, the vice-president is R. Metzler. They are elected by the Federal Assembly for 1 year from the members of the Federal Council (it consists of 7 people), which is also formed by it, but for 4 years. The Federal Council includes representatives of four parties with greatest number votes in elections to the Federal Assembly (two representatives each from the first three parties and one from the last fourth).
The bicameral Federal Assembly consists of the Council of State (i.e. the Council of the Cantons, 46 members elected for 4 years) and the National Council (200 deputies elected by direct popular vote based on proportional representation for 4 years). The last elections to the Council of State took place in 1999 (in different months in each canton), to the National Council on October 24, 1999.
The largest number of votes in the last elections to the National Council were given to: Swiss People's Party (SVP) - 22.6%, Social Democratic Party (SPS) - 22.5%, Radical Free Democratic Party (FDP) - 19.9 % and the Christian Democratic People's Party (CVP) - 15.8%. They account for 80.8% of all votes (the Big Four won all the seats in the State Council).
The highest judicial power is exercised by the Federal Supreme Court. Its members are elected by the Federal Assembly (for 6 years).
The peculiarities of the functioning of the executive and legislative powers are manifested primarily in the annual automatic rotation of heads of state (and government). Switzerland is the only European country in which the principle of a “system of correspondence” of socio-political movements operates. This allows representatives of the “Big Four” political parties included in the Federal Council to lead the state for a very specific period and pursue their own policies. But in order to succeed in implementing their concept, socio-political parties temporarily at the head of the state must rely on the principles of constant compromise. They need to reach agreement with other members of the Federal Council, who will inevitably also temporarily lead the state.
The “system of correspondence”, which involves various parties in the process of forming national strategic goals, thus prevents unexpected changes in concepts in the social development of the country; it is able to absorb conflicts and tensions that must inevitably arise in a country with many national mentalities and different religions. This process usually develops complexly and slowly, but it is considered one of the main factors ensuring sustainable political stability and identity in the country.
The second feature can be considered the functioning of the principle of a unique Swiss political culture in the form of direct democracy. This system allows every citizen to be directly involved in solving public problems at the cantonal and federal levels. To hold a popular referendum, it is necessary to collect at least 50 thousand signatures to make a decision on the legal provision being developed and 100 thousand to make changes to existing legal norms. When holding national referendums, it is necessary to ensure a majority not only of the population, but also of the cantons.
Leading business associations also have a serious influence on the formation of the basic principles of the functioning of Swiss society. At the same time, the Swiss Union of Industrialists and Traders stands out (it arose in 1870), which constantly guides the main directions of the country's strategic economic growth. The emphasis is on increasing the share of capital-intensive and knowledge-intensive products in national production. The Association of Swiss Bankers has an equally significant influence on the formation of society. It makes great efforts to maintain the prestigious level of this sector in the global economy. It is especially important to show the inconsistency of the international myth about the so-called. dwarfs of Zurich, who, in the depths of their dungeons, provide a “safe haven” for not entirely conscientious investors.
The main strategic goal of domestic policy is to ensure the sustainability of socio-economic development, the stability of the political system and the identity of the country's population. The importance of this problem is determined by the fact that within the Swiss Confederation there is no single common language and national culture. Switzerland unites three leading Eurocontinental ethnic groups, each of which is adjacent to neighboring large countries with a related mentality. Therefore, the main stake in the decision internal problems is aimed at respecting the equal rights of minorities.
The most important mechanism for the consolidation of Swiss society is considered to be the active use of the postulates of the “compliance system” at all levels. The shock-absorbing ability of this principle of government was quite clearly demonstrated during the integration into the government coalition (within the Federal Council) of the radical nationalist party of the famous Swiss multimillionaire K. Blocher. Using populist nationalist slogans (about 19% of the country's total population are foreigners - the highest European figure), this party received almost 1/5 of all votes in the last elections. However, the entry of representatives of national radicals to the highest level of government did not lead to the destruction of the unshakable stability of the country’s socio-political system.
In foreign policy, the most radical changes occurred in March 2002 - Switzerland became a member of the UN. For many years, the Alpine Republic, based on the principles of “permanent neutrality,” avoided membership not only in NATO, the EU, but even in the UN. True, she was a member of some specialized agencies of this organization, and often adhered to the economic sanctions it imposed. The country's attempt to join the UN in 1986 was blocked in a popular referendum; 75% of Swiss citizens were against it. But in March 2002, more than half voted positively, and Switzerland became the 190th member of the UN.
The main reason for such a decisive change in the principles of foreign policy is related to economic factors. The volume of products (and services) produced abroad by leading industrial and financial corporations already significantly exceeds national indicators. Under these conditions, the preservation of the “traditional Alpine isolation” began to threaten Swiss competitiveness in world markets.
The situation is more complicated with the country’s accession to the EU, which accounts for the overwhelming volume of foreign economic turnover. But, according to Swiss analysts, this is more a political issue than an economic one. Believe it's ok. 90% of all economic problems arising from non-entry into the EU have already been resolved as a result of a bilateral agreement (Switzerland - EU) within the European Economic Area. We are talking primarily about establishing the principle of freedom of movement of goods, capital, labor and patents (licenses).
Serious objections to the country's possible accession to the EU are associated with the need to adapt the existing Swiss socio-political system to European norms. The gradual elimination of the basic rather specific postulates of the country’s government (automatic annual rotation of heads of state, “direct democracy” through nationwide referendums, etc.) could damage the identity of the Swiss population and traditional socio-political stability. Recent polls (2002) showed that only 1/3 of the population is in favor of joining the EU, 1/3 is categorically against it and, finally, the rest believe that with their “head” they approve of this process, but their “heart” is strongly against accession to this organization.
The country's armed forces are considered the largest in Europe. The Swiss regular army numbers approx. 360 thousand people (and in conditions of mobilization it can be increased to 500 thousand people within 48 hours). It consists of the Ground Forces, the Air Force, border guards and fortification units (personnel of mountain bunkers). The annual conscription into the army is 42.6 thousand people. (2002). Military spending is $2.5 billion, which is 1% of GDP.
The reserve army is formed on the basis of a “militia system”, according to which a part of the male population (aged 20-24 years) is regularly called up as recruits for military service (18 weeks). The second group consists of reservists who can be called up in conditions of full mobilization. All those liable for military service receive uniforms, weapons, necessary ammunition and even a bicycle for safekeeping at home so that they can independently arrive at their destination in full combat readiness.
Such a large-scale militarization of public life in the Alpine Republic is based on very specific historical traditions. The centuries-old struggle for independence, the long period of participation of Swiss “mercenary soldiers” as the most professionally trained personnel of many European armies, etc. - all this contributed to the introduction of the importance of military service to ensure the safety and welfare of the confederacy. In addition, the army is a kind of symbol of the “Swiss identity” of the inhabitants of this country.
And yet in the end. 2002 began a large-scale military reform, according to which by the end. 2004 The regular army should be reduced threefold (to 120 thousand people). Accordingly, there will be a decrease in the number of recruits (up to 20 thousand people) and reservists (up to 80 thousand people). But it is assumed that military spending will not be reduced. They will be used in large quantities for the development and implementation of the latest military equipment.
Economy of Switzerland
Switzerland is a technologically highly developed country with a market economy. The enterprise is focused on the production of high-quality specialized products (within its own “production niche”), most of which are intended for sale on the world market (its own “marketing niche”). The country continues to be one of the world's largest financial centers focused on serving foreign investors.
The country's economic growth rates are traditionally more stable and moderate compared to the European average - 1.5-2% per year. They are less dependent on the state of the economic situation, since the country is dominated by the production of durable goods (and services). GDP volume is $231 billion (2002), which is 0.7-0.8% of world production. GDP per capita 31.7 thousand dollars. Employment 4 million people. (2001), unemployment - 1.9%, inflation - 0.5% (2002).
Sectoral structure of the economy by contribution to GDP: agriculture - 2%, industry - 34%, service sector - 64%; by number of employees: agriculture - 5%, industry - 26%, service sector - 69% (2002). The features of the economic structure are more clearly identified at the corporate level.
The international appearance of Switzerland's modern industrial structure is determined by a relatively small group of corporations. These are primarily pharmaceutical manufacturers, food giant Nestle and the banking and insurance sector. Pharmaceuticals are the undisputed leader of the Swiss industry. Its position is especially strong in the production of antipyretic drugs, vitamins, anti-cancer interferon, and drugs for the treatment of AIDS. Switzerland accounts for approx. 10% of world production of medicines and almost 30% of world exports. The enterprises employ 85 thousand people. (including 26.5 thousand people within the country). The share of pharmaceutical products in national exports is 20%.
The second basis of the Swiss international “production niche” is made up of specialized mechanical engineering companies (special industrial equipment, precision machines, medical equipment, watch production, etc.). The share of mechanical engineering in the value of national exports is approx. 44%. The number of people employed in the industry is approx. 1 million people (including within the country - 332.7 thousand people). Medium and small specialized firms predominate (approx. 4.2 thousand). In terms of the value of exported engineering products, Switzerland ranks 7th in the world and is among the world's top five in exports of machine tool products.
There are 644 companies operating in the watch industry, employing approx. 39.5 thousand people Share of products in national exports approx. 7.7%. Switzerland remains the world's leading manufacturer of high-quality watch products. Switzerland's share in the volume of manufactured products (27.8 million pieces) is relatively small (7% of the world market), but in terms of the value of watch products (approx. $6.5 billion), the country remains an unattainable leader (52% of the world market).
The latest trends in modern global mechanical engineering (nanotechnology, software, medical equipment, etc.) have allowed Switzerland to quite clearly define its new “production niche.” Based on a number of traditional areas of national industrial specialization (pharmaceutical and precision watchmaking), the largest European cluster of “medical-tech producers” is being formed in the country. According to the OECD, Switzerland was recognized as the country with the best prospects for global success in knowledge-intensive industries (2001).
The country's banking and insurance sector is also a traditional specialization of the Swiss economy. Almost 1/3 of the annual global volume of financial transactions occurs in Switzerland (approx. 2.0-2.5 trillion dollars).
There are 375 banks in the country (2000), incl. so-called grossbanks (large joint stock companies), cantonal and regional (public ownership), private banks (family ownership), etc. Their total closing balance is CHF 2.1 trillion. fr. (2000), the number of employees is 112 thousand people, the tax contribution provides 12% of all revenues to the state budget. Mostly gross banks (UBS, Credit Suisse), as well as leading private banks (Baloise - capitalization $5 billion, Iulius Baer - $3.5 billion, Vontobcl - $1.9 billion, etc.) are involved in cross-border asset management. ). Cantonal banks are focused mainly on servicing domestic financial transactions.
The main current problem for Swiss banks is related to the growing international claims regarding their use of the principle of “banking secrecy,” which allows some foreign depositors to evade paying national taxes and even “money laundering.” The Swiss banking sector is seeking to rid itself of this “unfavorable image”. Additional tightening is being implemented, obliging banks to more carefully check the origin of any money. But international complaints persist.
In general, the activities of Swiss elite companies within the “industrial and marketing niches” they have mastered are developing quite successfully. In the list of the 500 largest European corporations there is always a solid group from Switzerland (in September 2002 there were 26 of them, in Sweden - 25, in the Netherlands - 22, etc.). But the global economic recession has not spared the “Swiss economic paradise”. Such failures, as a rule, befell corporations that, for the sake of economic expansion, went beyond the boundaries of their traditional specialization.
The country's agriculture is focused mainly on livestock farming (75% of the total value of agricultural products). Highly productive cattle of local dairy breeds (Simmental, Schwyz, etc.) are bred. The vast majority of milk is used to produce high-quality cheese (half of the 725 thousand cows graze exclusively on alpine meadows).
The share of cultivated land accounts for 6.5% of rural land. Cereal crops are insignificant, but viticulture is actively developing. Small and medium-sized predominate farms with the active development of various types of agricultural cooperation. Its own agricultural sector provides only approx. 60% of national food needs.
Transport and communications in Switzerland occupy an extremely important place in the entire system of European transport communications. Numerous highways of the continent pass through the country (North - South, East - West). In the conditions of the mountainous landscape, the construction of numerous and expensive structures was required: tunnels (Simplonsky - 19.7 km; St. Gotthard - 14.9 km, etc.), bridges, viaducts, etc. Two new transalpine tunnels are currently under construction; this infrastructure project is considered the largest in Europe.
The length of the railway network is 4406 km (almost completely electrified). The length of highways is 71.1 thousand km (including 1638 km of highways). River navigation is carried out along the Rhine (45 km from Basel to Schaffhausen), as well as on 12 lakes. The main river port is Basel. The merchant fleet includes 26 ships (including 7 foreign ones). These include: 15 dry cargo ships, 6 container ships, 4 chemical tankers. There are two pipelines in Switzerland: for pumping crude oil - 314 km, for transporting natural gas - 1506 km. 66 airports (including 41 with a paved runway).
Telephone communication is automated. Cable and microwave radio systems operate within the country. The external part is provided through near-Earth satellite stations (Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean). The number of people connected to the phone is 4.82 million people. (1998), there are 3.85 million mobile phone owners. (2002).
The tourism industry plays a vital role in the economic development of the country. A century and a half ago, it was income from the hotel business that turned out to be one of the financial sources for the development of national industry. At the core modern strategy tourism development is based on the concept of using two favorable natural conditions. The most prestigious tourist centers in Switzerland are located either close to famous mineral water springs (for example, San Moritz), or near mountain ranges that are landscaped for skiing (for example, Zermatt). The country has 50 thousand km of pedestrian tourist roads.
The country's economic and social policy is aimed primarily at maximizing the use of the potential competitive advantages of the national economy (high quality and reliability of products, specialization in the production of special-purpose products, focus on foreign markets, etc.). Particular attention is paid to identifying and forming new “production niches” (for example, massive support for emerging clusters of biopharmaceuticals and medical technology).
In a broad sense, public finance is increasingly focused on stimulating the most effective solution to two main economic (social) problems. First of all, it is necessary to increase the efficiency of the entire education system through the integration of science and practice. The use of more qualified personnel in the economy should ensure constant innovative progress. The second problem is the need for significant modernization of transport infrastructure, which will decisively ensure the profitability of the newest types of production. This will happen as a result of a large-scale entry of products into world markets and a noticeable influx of foreign entrepreneurial capital (the construction of the two largest transalpine tunnels is being carried out with budgetary funds). The declared goal of the Swiss economic policy- establish the country as one of the world's leading centers of technology and research.
Success in solving social problems is usually closely linked to increased economic efficiency. Modern social conditions in the country are considered one of the best in the world. But recently, due to the rapid aging of the population, some imbalance has arisen in the state pension system. It is known that Switzerland has huge gold reserves. They amount per capita to approx. 10 ounces, which is 10 times higher than in the US and Europe. Some political groups (especially populist radical nationalists) propose using these gold resources to strengthen the financial basis of the state pension system.
In the 1990s. public finances were characterized by an increase in the budget deficit and public internal debt. In the 21st century Significant progress has been made in addressing these problems. The state budget has become balanced, i.e. the amounts of financial receipts and expenses became equal ($30 billion in 2001). The growth of domestic debt has stopped, and the country has no external debt.
The country's monetary policy is carried out by the Swiss National Bank. It is aimed primarily at solving three main problems: ensuring monetary stability, strengthening the position of the Swiss franc, and maintaining low lending rates (the country is traditionally considered such a zone).
The world market has long become the main factor in the business cycle in Switzerland. Therefore, the principle of diversification of foreign economic relations is actively used, which makes it possible to reduce negative impacts economic downturns on the stability of the national economic situation. At the same time, the emphasis is on gaining powerful positions in those sectors and industries that are least exposed to cyclical fluctuations in production.
Switzerland is among the top ten world exporters of capital and the second ten exporters of goods. Switzerland has already shifted a significant part of its industrial production outside the country. In terms of the volume of accumulated foreign direct investment ($215.2 billion), Switzerland ranks 5th in Europe (2000). Switzerland is the undisputed world leader in terms of their cost per capita (27 thousand dollars) and when compared with GDP (89.2%). Swiss companies employ 1.73 million people abroad, i.e. 43.3% of the number of workers within the country. This figure is the highest in the world. In the field of foreign trade, Switzerland occupies a more modest position. Merchandise exports amounted to $100.3 billion (2002). Main export partners: EU - 61%, USA - 10%. Import of goods - $94.4 billion. Main import partners: EU - 79%, USA - 5.1%.
Switzerland is among the top ten major exporters of direct investment to the Russian Federation (in 2002 - $0.7 billion). Some elite companies have already created powerful production units (Nestle, ABB, Holcim, etc.). But the majority continue to trade in the Russian market, although some are already starting to implement production projects (Novartis, Roche, Swatch Group, etc.). Leading banking and insurance companies (UBS, Credit Suisse, Zurich) are also very active. Swiss capital is preparing for large-scale development of the promising Russian market.
Science and culture of Switzerland
There are many universities in the country, in almost every major canton, the oldest of which is located in Basel (since 1460). Switzerland has always had a reputation as a promising developer of innovative technologies, but in their development it is clearly inferior to other countries. To overcome this shortcoming, a special fund “Swiss Network of Innovation” (SNI - RSI) was created.
Two well-known Federal Higher Schools of Technology were chosen as the main locomotives: in Zurich (ETH) and Lausanne (EPFL). They prepare approx. 18-20 thousand students to work at Swiss high-tech firms, as well as at the Center for Electronics and Microelectronics (CSEM), an IBM research laboratory (near Zurich).
The activities of, for example, the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) are based on the principle that “a breakthrough in science and technology occurs, as a rule, at the intersection of traditional disciplines.” Therefore, 12 faculties were merged into 5 larger ones, and many interdisciplinary centers emerged. In this higher school studies approx. 5.5 thousand listeners, incl. 800 postgraduate candidates, 400 people. receive a second education. The teaching staff is 210 professors and 2.4 thousand specialists, entrepreneurs and administrators (3/4 of them receive their basic salary from external sources). Particular emphasis is placed on medical engineering, biotechnology, digital modeling, information and telecommunications systems. Switzerland has high hopes for the successful implementation of such a model. The country ranks first in the world in terms of the number of Nobel laureates per capita.
Among outstanding personalities who lived and worked in Switzerland, we can highlight, first of all, prominent religious figures of the Protestant movement: W. Zwingli and J. Calvin. The leading philosopher of the Enlightenment era is considered to be the Genevan J.-J. Rousseau. The famous Swiss architect J.-E. Corbusier remains an iconic figure in modern urban planning.
College of Modern Management.
Report
in geography
on the topic: “Economic and geographical characteristics of Switzerland”
Completed
1st year student
Group 1-A Petrichenko Margarita.
Moscow 2008.
Switzerland
Economic-geographical location:
Switzerland is one of the small states of Europe. Its area is only 41.3 thousand square meters. km, and the population is 6.99 million. (1993). The monetary unit is the Swiss franc. Switzerland is located almost in the very center of Foreign Europe, at the crossroads of the most important trade routes. Three quarters of its borders - with France, Austria and Italy - run along the high mountain ranges of the Jura and the Alps, and only the border with Germany and Liechtenstein runs along the lowland - the Rhine Valley. Snow-capped peaks of the Alps, blue lakes, bright green valleys, mostly small towns with narrow medieval streets and houses with painted facades still preserved - these are the characteristic external features of the country. But at the same time, Switzerland is one of the most industrially developed countries in the world, occupying one of the first places in terms of the experience and qualifications of engineers and workers, the quality of products produced and the amount of profits that Switzerland receives from industrial enterprises located in the country itself and beyond its borders, from enormous capital investments.
This small country plays a prominent role in world political life. Thanks to its permanent neutrality, as well as its geographical location, important international conferences and diplomatic negotiations are held there. During the First and Second World Wars, Switzerland remained neutral. After World War II, it did not join the UN, despite approving its goals.
The capital of Switzerland is the city of Bern. Lausanne is the seat of the federal judiciary. The head of state is the president. Switzerland is a republic, a federation consisting of 23 cantons /districts/ (3 of them are divided into half-cantons). Each canton has its own parliament and government, its own laws, and enjoys broad autonomous rights. The legislative body is the bicameral Federal Assembly, consisting of the National Council and the Council of Cantons.
The first chamber is elected by universal suffrage using a proportional system, while each canton sends two of its representatives to the second. Executive power belongs to the Federal Council. One of its seven members is elected in turn as President of the Swiss Confederation for a term of one year.
Natural resources of Switzerland:
Switzerland is characterized by a large number of mountains. In Switzerland, mountains are widely used for recreational purposes. Here is the most powerful and highest part of the Alps. The height of the largest mountain peak - Peak Dufour - is more than four and a half thousand meters (4634 m). Mountains occupy the entire central and largely southern and eastern parts of the country. The Rhone and Rhine valleys divide the Swiss Alps into two almost parallel groups of mountain ranges, running from southwest to northeast. The highest part of the Alps is composed of crystalline rocks and limestones. High mountain areas are covered with eternal snow and glaciers. The largest of these glaciers and one of the largest in Europe is the Aletsch Glacier. It stretches for 27 km, covering an area of 115 square meters. km. On the border with France lies the Jura mountain chain. Between the Bernese Alps and the Jura, from the Rhine flowing along the border with Germany to Lake Geneva, stretches the undulating low Swiss plateau (height 400-600 m), which is the most populated part of the country.
Switzerland is characterized by very strong differences in climatic conditions. This is due to the complex nature of the terrain. In the Alps, where a large number of ski resorts and sanatoriums are located, the average winter temperature ranges between -10 and -12 degrees, but the weather is almost always sunny. On the peaks of the Alps the snow does not melt throughout the year. In winter and spring, snow avalanches are common due to the accumulation of snow on the slopes. In summer there is frequent rain and fog in the mountains. On the Swiss Plateau, winter is mild, with an average January temperature of about -2 degrees. Snow usually lasts only a few days. Summer is warm (average July temperature is +18 degrees), autumn is long and sunny. This climate is favorable for agricultural work. Even grapes have time to ripen on the Swiss plateau.
The main charm of the landscape is the lakes. The largest of them are Geneva and Constance. Next come Neuchâtel, Lago Maggiore, Firwaldstät (the lake of four channels), Zurich and Lake Lugano. Their origin is mainly tectonic-glacial. The shores are bordered by wooded hills or rocky mountains, the slopes of which drop straight into the water. Large lakes are not only places of pilgrimage for tourists, they play an important role in shipping and land reclamation. The rivers of such a small country as Switzerland belong to the basins of three seas: the North, Mediterranean and Black. Such things begin in the Alps large rivers, like Rain and Rona. The tributary of the Danube river originates from them. Inn, as well as a tributary of the Po - the Ticino River.
Forests occupy about 24% of the territory. Also, a large part of the country is occupied by subalpine and alpine meadows. Swiss national parks are numerous. There are many reserves and wildlife sanctuaries here.
Population of Switzerland:
Due to historical preconditions, a single ethnic community has not developed in Switzerland. Linguistic and ethnic differences are very clear: each of the four Swiss peoples - the German-Swiss, the French-Swiss, the Italian-Swiss and the Romansh - represent a separate ethnic community, distinguished by national independence, language and cultural traditions. This is confirmed by the fact that the official languages of Switzerland are German, French and Italian.
The majority of the Swiss belong to two religions - Protestantism (2.9 million people) and Catholicism (2.2 million people). Among Protestants, Calvenists predominate. The cantons of Vaud, Schaffhausen, City Basel, Zurich, Bern, Glarus, Neuchâtel, and Geneva belong to the Protestant Church. Catholicism is spread over a larger area, but in a less populated part of the country. The cantons of Schwyz, Uri, Unterwalden, Tessin, Friborg, Solothurn, Valais, Lucerne, and Zug remained Catholic. In some cantons (Appenzell, Aargau, Grisons) the proportion of Protestants and Catholics is almost equal. In recent years, the number of Catholics has increased markedly, which is explained by the higher birth rate in Catholic families, as well as the large proportion of foreigners who profess Catholicism. Over the past two decades, the birth rate has decreased, but at the same time the death rate has decreased. Therefore, natural population growth still occurred.
Along with the Swiss, more than 1 million foreigners live in the country, which is 1/6 of the total population. In some cities - Geneva, Basel, Zurich - the share of foreigners among residents rises to 1/5 - 1/3. No other European country has such a high proportion of foreigners in its population. These are primarily workers recruited for a long term to work in industry, construction, and the service sector. In addition to permanent immigration, there is also seasonal immigration. About 200 thousand people come to Switzerland for construction and agricultural work. Almost 100 thousand residents of the border areas of Germany and France commute to work in Switzerland every day.
In general, the country is extremely unevenly populated. The average population density is 154 people per 1 sq. km, but on the Swiss plateau and in the northeastern part of the country, where almost 3/4 of all the country’s inhabitants are concentrated, it reaches 250 people per 1 sq. km. In the mountainous, central and southern parts of Switzerland (with the exception of the canton of Tessin), as well as in the east, the population is very sparse - from 25 to 50 people per 1 sq. km.
More than half of the Swiss live in cities, the urban population is 60% (1991), but there are few large cities: only Zurich, Basel, Geneva, Bern and Lausanne have more than 100 thousand inhabitants. Only 4 cities have from 50 to 100 thousand people. The majority of the country's cities have less than 20 thousand inhabitants.
Swiss economy:
Switzerland is a highly developed industrial country with intensive agriculture. Due to the high quality of industrial products, they have a steady demand in world markets. In the structure of GDP (1990) industry 24.4%; agricultural 3.1%; finance, insurance 21.4%. The industry is characterized by non-mass production of high-quality products for export. The geographical location of Switzerland creates convenience for the import of raw materials and for the export of finished products.
The largest monopolies that dominate within the country and have fairly strong positions in the world market are the electrical engineering concern Brown Boveri, the mechanical engineering concern Sulzer, the chemical concern SIBA-Geigy, Sandots, Hofmann-La Roche, and the metallurgical concern Von Roll. ", "Aluswiss", food "Nestlé". The Nestlé concern ranks 4th in terms of turnover (1980) among the monopolies of Western Europe. Many monopolies open enterprises abroad. Thus, Nestlé has less than a dozen factories in Switzerland itself, and about 250 outside it, in 66 countries (1980).
Swiss Banking:
Swiss investments abroad have a characteristic feature: they are directed almost exclusively to industrialized countries. This is explained by the fact that the Swiss economy needs less raw materials from developing countries than other countries, since this country has less demand for it.
Switzerland is one of the leading financial centers in the world, one of the main exporters of capital. The total amount of Swiss capital abroad (in the form of loans, credits, investments and other investments) exceeds 150 billion Swiss francs. The safe deposit boxes of Swiss banks contain half of all securities of the developed countries of the world. For example, in the small town of Lugano alone there are 300 banks, financial societies and investment agencies per 2.5 thousand inhabitants. In the accounts of Swiss banks there are very large sums coming not only from Germany, the USA, France and other large European countries, but also sums coming from the countries of the former USSR and the current CIS. They are partially used in Switzerland itself, but are mainly sent under the guise of “Swiss investments” to those countries where, for political or other reasons, these foreign funds with their own “pass” cannot penetrate.
Particular mention should be made of the role of anonymous accounts, the size of deposits and the name of the owners of which banks keep strictly secret. Banking secrecy and numbered accounts are needed by the whole world. They facilitate "capital flight" from countries in which the political situation is unstable, or countries in which large industrial groups want to put pressure on the government. In addition, bank secrecy and numbered accounts allow large sums from the tax authorities of these states.
Sectors of Swiss industry specialization:
In addition to Switzerland's specialization in banking, the country specializes in industries that require few raw materials, but a lot of labor, high-quality expensive products. This direction of industrial development was also facilitated by the fact that the country has a highly qualified workforce.
The high quality of industrial products is explained by the fact that the scientific and technical development of their new types is widely focused here. Two industries are of decisive importance - mechanical engineering (production of turbines, electric motors, ship engines, ultra-precision machine tools, electronic and measuring equipment, watches) and the chemical industry (production of dyes, fertilizers for agriculture, medicines and other things).
Among other industries, the largest role is played by textile, clothing and food industry. Swiss chocolate, instant coffee, baby formula, and cheeses enjoy a high reputation.
There are very few large factories in the country, and, on the contrary, there are a lot of medium-sized and even small enterprises. These small enterprises successfully compete on the world market due to the fact that they produce highly qualified, high-quality and, as a rule, non-serial products for individual orders. Small enterprises are typical especially in the watch industry. This oldest industry is dispersed across approximately 800 factories, of which only three employ over a thousand workers. Watch companies annually produce 65-68 million watches (1980) and 9/10 of them are exported.
Machine-building enterprises are located mainly in densely populated areas with sufficient labor force. Watch factories, in particular, are clustered in Geneva, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Le Loc and Bierne - cities along the French border. Chem. factories are located almost exclusively in Basel and its surroundings, since raw materials could easily be transported here along the Rhine.
The country produces 55.8 billion kWh of electricity, 2/3 of this amount from hydroelectric power plants, 1/3 from nuclear power plants.
Agriculture in Switzerland:
Main role in agriculture. Livestock farming plays a role: it accounts for 3/4 of the cost of all agricultural products. products. Livestock (1990, million) cattle - 1.8, pigs - 1.7. Milk production comes first, followed by meat. Cows of the famous Swiss breed, which produce high milk yields, graze on alpine and subalpine pastures for six months a year. The milk is almost entirely processed into cheese or butter. Cheese is one of the important export items. Swiss cheese varieties are known in many countries.
Basic agricultural crops are wheat, barley, sugar beets, potatoes, forage grasses. About 6% of the country's area is occupied by arable land. The main grain growing areas are on the Swiss Plateau and in the Rhine Valley. In the canton of Tesin, grapes are grown, from which white table wine is made. Apricots and apples grow in the lower Rhone Valley.
Tourism in Switzerland:
Tourist services play an important role in the Swiss economy; over 7 million people visit the country every year (1990). The tourist season here lasts almost all year round. Services for tourists - hotels, campsites, restaurants, cafes, guide service, ski training, sale of souvenirs, etc. - provide the country with large incomes. This scope is primarily due to the favorable geographical position of the country. On the peaks of the Alps there is snow almost all year round. Switzerland is one of the best ski resorts.
Transport connections in Switzerland:
The country's position at the crossroads of many European roads, the country's mountainous terrain, and the need to ensure uninterrupted transportation of goods imported and exported by Switzerland - all this played a big role in the development of transport. Total Length (1990) railways 5 thousand km, roads 71.1 thousand km, cable cars - 58 km, cable cars - 724 km. Railways account for the bulk of transportation. The most important railway line in the country, Basel - Zurich - Bern - Lausanne - Geneva, passes through the main industrial areas and largest cities. Although Switzerland is landlocked, it has maritime trading vessels. Only pleasure boats ply on inland waters. The main port of the country is Basel. The mountainous terrain of the country explains the large number of cogwheel and cable cars. Thanks to this, a large number of people can get to those peaks that are accessible only to professional climbers. The highest railway station is located almost at 4 km above sea level.
Trade and trade partners of Switzerland:
The Swiss economy is very closely linked to the world market and therefore largely dependent on it. In Swiss exports, more than 9/10 by value are finished industrial products and only 1/10 are agricultural products. Imports are dominated by food products, industrial raw materials and fuel. Among Switzerland's very wide range of trading partners, the first is Germany, which accounts for approximately 15-17% of all Swiss exports and about 30% of imports. Then come France, Italy, USA and Great Britain.
etc.............
Shopping
In the minds of a huge number of people, Switzerland is associated with cheese and watches. And, of course, people come here to make sure that the Swiss cheese is the most delicious and the watches are the most accurate. It would hardly be an exaggeration to say that this is so.
Tourists can try Swiss cheeses and dishes based on them in any corner of the country. But many people go to Geneva specifically to buy watches and jewelry. By the way, original products can be bought here on any central street.
The spring months in Switzerland are especially attractive for those who love to purchase designer items. The fact is that it is at this time that many manufacturers offer discounts (up to 70%!) on their goods - from clothes to souvenirs. You can buy things from famous designers in Ticino, in the south of the country.
Among the largest shopping centers are Shop Ville (Zurich) and Fox Town Faktory (Mendrisio). The latter is the largest shopping complex in Europe.
Shopping in Bern will give you great pleasure. In shopping boulevards up to 6 kilometers long you can find everything from souvenirs to cakes.
As for the store opening hours, you will have to get used to it. Firstly, most institutions are closed on Sunday. On Saturday, the working day usually lasts up to 16 hours. Shops used to close on Wednesday, especially in rural areas, but on Thursday they are open longer - until about 21:00. The Swiss are quite strict with lunch: from 12:00 to 14:00 most institutions are closed.
Gas stations are beyond competition: open every day from 08:00 to 22:00. True, food and drinks are more expensive here.
Transport
The largest international airports in Switzerland are in Zurich, Basel and Geneva. They are serviced by the Swiss company Swiss.
In general, transport links in Switzerland are one of the densest. Trains depart approximately every half hour. Large cities have a very dense network of buses and trams. Most metro lines in Switzerland are similar to our tram lines: they run above ground. It was only in 2008 that the first underground metro opened in Lausanne.
Intercity transportation is also organized flawlessly. Even remote settlements regularly require buses. You can get to any place in the city and country quickly, easily and using the transport that you prefer.
Ferries ply on the numerous lakes of Switzerland exactly on schedule. There are cable cars in the mountains: not only very convenient, but also exciting!
In general, transport in this country works - pardon the pun - like a Swiss watch.
As for roads, traveling in your own car can also bring considerable pleasure. At least because of the landscapes that stretch around. In addition, one cannot complain about the quality of coverage and infrastructure. Roads that pass through mountain passes play an important role.
An important point: in order to drive a car on some highways, your car must be equipped with a special ticket. You can buy it when entering Switzerland, at customs. It costs around $30. The permissible speed on highways is 120 km/h, up to 80 km/h outside populated areas, up to 50 km/h in populated areas. There are video cameras on all roads that help catch violators, so be careful. By the way, you can be convicted for speeding in Switzerland. You can pay a fine even for exceeding the speed limit by 5 km/h.
Helpful tip: Don't drive with sunglasses on. The fact is that there are a lot of tunnels on the roads of Switzerland. If you enter a tunnel on a sunny day, you will find yourself in pitch darkness, which is unsafe for you and, possibly, for the vehicle moving towards you.
Connection
Communications in Switzerland, as you may have guessed, also work smoothly. Moreover, modern public telephones open up very unusual opportunities for many tourists. Thus, they have a touch screen through which you can not only make a call, send an email or look through a telephone directory, but also order train tickets.
As for mobile communications, the GSM standard is used here.
Internet access can be found everywhere: in public places or in a virtual cafe - for free or for a couple of francs.
Post offices are open on weekdays (Monday-Friday) from 07:30 to 18:30 (lunch - from 12:00 to 13:30). Most hotel lobbies have one or two computers connected to the Internet that you can use.
Safety
Tourists intending to spend a holiday in Switzerland with accommodation in rented accommodation or a hotel require a tourist visa. To receive it, you need to submit the following documents: a foreign passport and a copy of its first page, a completed application form with a signature and photo, an original and a copy of a round-trip ticket, confirmation of prepayment for housing, confirmation of availability cash. In some cases, the Embassy may require other documents.
Switzerland is considered a safe country, and yet experts recommend getting insurance, which can save you from paying impressive sums for emergency medical care (you never know). And if your property is stolen, insurance will help compensate for the damage.
In general, the crime rate in Switzerland is very low. However, you should still beware of pickpockets, especially during high season or during exhibitions and conferences. It is recommended to be especially careful at train stations and during night train trips.
In case of theft, immediately contact the police station for a report. It is better to always have your passport with you if you want to avoid problems with the police. By the way, the representatives of the law here are not distinguished by their angelic character.
The level of road safety in this country is also very high. However, winding mountain roads can pose an increased danger, especially during the summer and winter holidays, when congestion increases.
Business
Switzerland is the richest country in the world. In addition, it is one of the most important financial centers in the world: a huge number of branches of foreign banks operate here. The secret of the reliability of Swiss banks is simple: they are located in a country with a stable economic and legal system, and therefore cannot go bankrupt.
It seems completely logical that a country with such a status annually hosts international conferences and exhibitions, which attract tens, hundreds of thousands of people from different points planets. Thus, the most popular exhibitions are: FESPO ZURICH (“Recreation, Travel, Sports”), SICHERHEIT (“International Safety Fair”), IGEHO (“International Exhibition of the Supply Industry, Hotel and Restaurant Business”), Internationaler Automobil-Salon Genf ( “International Automobile Salon”), Blickfang Basel (“Exhibition of Furniture, Jewelry and Fashion Design”) and many others. Conferences on political, financial, banking, industrial and cultural issues are regularly held here.
Real estate
Switzerland has long been considered one of the most closed countries for foreign property buyers. It is impossible to buy real estate here if you do not have a category B residence permit (which means a permanent visa extension for 10 years). Moreover, the buyer is still obliged to comply with the rules of the state “game”: the purchased property cannot be used for commercial purposes. A foreigner is allowed to use housing only for his own needs, with a residence time limit of 6 months a year. You can live in this house permanently only by obtaining a residence permit in this country. At the same time, there is still a limitation on area.
Houses and apartments in Switzerland are very expensive, and the country's real estate market has demonstrated its stability even during the crisis. Experts even noted a slight increase in prices for a number of objects.
The cost of housing in Switzerland depends on many factors. One of the most important is location. So, a small apartment in Villars, in a residential complex, can be purchased for some 60 thousand euros. Apartments in more expensive resorts can cost from 150 thousand to 800 thousand euros (this depends on the area and view from the window). Those who have more serious means and are looking for privacy in the lap of nature and huge personal space, of course, choose luxury villas and chalets. Such housing will cost about 5-8 million euros.
Contrary to popular belief, traveling in Switzerland is no more expensive than traveling in Germany or Italy. It’s just that the Swiss understand very well that “good money” equals “good service”. In this country, tourists always get what they pay for.
If you want to spend as little as possible, then the best option is to live in a camp site, cook by yourself, travel short distances and only by bicycle. With such a vacation, you can spend about $30 per day. You won't spend much more if you eat in restaurants. fast food or student canteens at universities: lunches there are relatively inexpensive ($7-9).
Comfortable conditions within reason - a three-star hotel or inn - will cost about $100 per day. Eating out can make a big difference on your wallet. By the way, tips there (+15%) are included in the bill. The same applies to the cost of taxi services.
A visit to a museum or an acquaintance with some attraction will cost about $4. You will spend about the same amount to move around the city using public transport.
Visa information
Citizens of the CIS and the Russian Federation require a visa to travel to Switzerland, which is part of the Schengen countries. A short-term Schengen visa (category C) can be tourist (when booking a hotel or a tour around the country), guest (when visiting relatives or friends), business (if necessary, meetings with business partners) and transit (when traveling in transit to those countries that are not Schengen members).
In addition, the Swiss Embassy issues study visas for people going to study for a period of more than 90 days, and work visas for people who are employed.
The Swiss Embassy in Moscow is located at: per. Ogorodnaya Sloboda, 2/5. You can also contact the Consulate General in St. Petersburg (Chernyshevsky Ave., 17) or the Visa Department of the Embassy (Moscow, Prechistenskaya embankment, 31).
Story
The history of Switzerland dates back to the 12th millennium BC. It was then that the territory covered with eternal snow, under the pressure of global warming, began to become free of ice. Gradually the white cover changed to green, and the “revived” earth found its first inhabitants from the human race.
In ancient times, Switzerland was inhabited by the Celtic tribes of the Helvetii, hence its ancient name- Helvetia. Around the 1st century BC, after the campaigns of Julius Caesar, the country was conquered by the Romans and gained worldwide fame. In the 5th century AD, during the era of the Great Migration, it was captured by the Alemanni, Burgundians and Ostrogoths; in the 6th century - the Franks. In the 11th century, Switzerland became part of the “Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation.”
Initially the Swiss were not one nation, Switzerland itself was a union of communities (cantons) striving for self-government. At the beginning of August 1291, the peasants of the forest cantons of Schwyz, Uri and Unterwalden, living on the shores of Lake Vierwaldstät, entered into an alliance with each other and swore an oath to help each other in the fight against the rule of the Habsburg dynasty; in a stubborn struggle they defended their independence. The Swiss celebrate this joyful event to this day: August 1 is the Swiss National Day - fireworks and fireworks illuminate the Swiss sky in memory of the events of more than seven centuries ago.
For two centuries, Swiss troops defeated the feudal armies of dukes, kings and kaisers. Provinces and cities began to join the original union. The united allies sought to expel the Habsburgs, gradually expanding their borders. In 1499, after the victory over Kaiser Maximilian I of Habsburg, Switzerland was freed from imperial rule. In 1513, there were already 13 cantons in the union. Each canton was absolutely sovereign - there was no common army, no common constitution, no capital, no central government. In the 16th century, a severe crisis occurred in Switzerland. The reason for this was a schism in the Christian church. Geneva and Zurich became centers of activity for the Protestant reformers Calvin and Zwingli. In 1529, a religious war began in Switzerland. Only a serious danger coming from outside prevented the complete collapse of the state. In 1798, the French invaded Switzerland and transformed it into the unitary Helvetic Republic. For fifteen years the country was under their rule. The situation changed only in 1815, when the Swiss introduced their own constitution with equal rights for 22 sovereign cantons. In the same year, the Vienna Peace Congress recognized the “permanent neutrality” of Switzerland and defined its borders, which are still inviolable. However, the unity of the union of cantons was not reliably ensured by the organization of a sufficiently strong central government. Only under the constitution of 1948 did the fragile union turn into a single state - federal Switzerland.
National characteristics
Switzerland is a highly developed country with intensive agriculture. It is the largest exporter of capital, the financial center of the capitalist world. Swiss banks are the most reliable. Perhaps this is explained by the fact that the country has never joined any blocs. It was and remains a stable country in Europe.
In Switzerland, four languages are spoken and written: German (various local dialects of Swiss German and literary High German are spoken by 65% of the population), French (18%), Italian (mainly one of the Lombard dialects, 12%), and in Romansh (in five different dialects). Having the opportunity to study all the languages of the country at school, every Swiss, as a rule, understands them, although he is not always able to express himself in all of them.
The Swiss are very religious: according to the 1980 census, about 50% profess Protestant faith, 44% are Catholic, 6% adhere to other religions or atheism. Traveling around Switzerland, one cannot help but notice the world-famous virtue of the Swiss - the love of cleanliness and order. They are cleaning the streets with a vacuum cleaner! James Joyce once remarked that soup here can be eaten without plates, straight from the pavement. In Switzerland, it is impossible to pass by Swiss watches, which have become the embodiment of precision, elegance, and a kind of world standard. For this small country, watches have become the most prestigious and significant export.
Culture
In Eastern Switzerland there is the Rhine Falls (average water flow - 1100 cubic meters per second). The city of Schaffhausen is located near the waterfall. This part of the country abounds in variegated flower carpets: alpine rose (rhododendron), edelweiss, saxifrage, prolomnik. Most of the plants are perennial herbs and shrubs. Their flowers are relatively large and bright; both flowers and plants themselves are often fragrant. Small towns and villages with an unobtrusive charm fit perfectly into such a natural landscape. In Central Switzerland you can admire Mount Pilatus - a favorite vacation spot for both residents of the country and foreign tourists.
Switzerland is an amazing country. Both the beauty of nature and outstanding creations of human hands are concentrated in a small space. At every step there are traces of various civilizations. The ruins in Nyon and Avenches are reminiscent of the Romans, in particular the amphitheater for 10,000 visitors. In Basel, Geneva and Lausanne, a variety of Romanesque and Gothic architectural monuments attract attention. The Castello di Montebello fortress from the Renaissance has been preserved - one of the places of pilgrimage for tourists. The Baroque is richly represented, mainly in the monasteries of Einsiedeln, Engelberg and the churches of Kreuzlingen and Arlesheim.
The architectural appearance of the city of Schaffhausen is dominated by Baroque and Rococo, and the oldest surviving buildings date back to the late Gothic period. Along a path paved with stones you can climb to the ancient fortress of Munot. The center of Eastern Switzerland is the city of St. Gallen, which, according to legend, owed its birth to the Irish monk Gallus. During the construction of the monastery, Gallus was helped by a bear; his image can be seen today on the city coat of arms. Famous Cathedral in St. Gallen and the monastery library are considered the main monuments of the Baroque style in Switzerland.
The cultural life of the country is diverse and rich. Every big city has its own theater and symphony orchestra. The most famous musical theaters are the Opera House in Zurich, the Grand Theater in Geneva and the Basel City Theater. Summer in Switzerland is the time for festivals; they take place in Lausanne, Zurich, Montreux and many other cities. In addition to world-famous international music festivals, Lucerne hosts an annual carnival. The holiday always begins on Thursday and lasts until the first Wednesday of Lent.
Swiss cuisine
The cuisine of Switzerland enjoys well-deserved recognition among gourmets all over the world, and the Swiss themselves at home are by no means shy away from Lucullean delights. So, the favorite pastime of Zurich residents is walking around restaurants and cafes, and if they praise you about one of the eateries, you can safely go there. The local cuisine has been strongly influenced by its neighbors, primarily the “older French cousin” and Italian cuisine, as well as the purely Swabian table, but still it has enough of its own delicacies that are widespread in other countries. A typical Swiss dish is the famous fondue, which is best enjoyed when it is cold outside and raining or snowing. Then sit comfortably in front of the fireplace and, pricking pieces of bread crumb onto a long fork, dip them in the melted cheese. It is best to drink this delicacy with white wine or tea.
Another famous cheese dish that has become widespread is raclette from Wallis. The very name of the dish (“raclette” (French) - large grater) reveals the principle of its preparation. The cheese is grated on a coarse grater or broken into small pieces, heated and served with potatoes. However, to enjoy the taste and aroma of cheese, it is not necessary to reheat it. The best example is Emmental (more often called Swiss) and Appenzell cheeses, which enjoy well-deserved recognition among gourmets, as well as Grayerz cheese. Vacherin, which is prepared only in winter, and Schabziger, a cheese with herbs from Glernerland, have an exquisite taste and aroma.
Among the Ticino delicacies we should mention, first of all, small soft formagini cheeses, which are made from cottage cheese, as well as various varieties of mountain cheese, the most famous of which is Piora. Another famous Swiss delicacy is Zurich schnitzel (veal in cream sauce). Those who like to eat heartily prefer the Berner Platte - a dish made from... sauerkraut with beans and fried potatoes. Bern is also considered the birthplace of the famous Rosti - thinly sliced fried potatoes with cracklings.
Now is the time to think about soups, for example, Basel flour soup, barley soup from Bünden or Busekka - Ticin tripe soup. National dish sunny southern Switzerland - this, of course, is polenta, a dish of corn grits with cream and pieces of fruit. To the south of Saint Gotthard, risotto is a favorite - a rice dish prepared Milanese style (with saffron), with mushrooms or peasant style (with vegetables).
The Swiss cuisine menu includes fish dishes: rudd, trout, pike and aigli (freshwater perch), which are prepared differently everywhere. In late autumn and winter, you can try game delicacies, such as roe deer back, in many restaurants. And another delicacy, famous on both sides of the Swiss border, deserves your attention. This is Bünden meat, dried beef, cut into thin slices. Those who first tasted it in Valais, and not in Graubünden, call this dish “Welsh-style meat.”
The Alpine republic is famous for its wines. White wines are widely known - “Dezaley” and “St.-Saphorin”, “Fendant” and “Johannisberg”, “Twanner”. The best varieties of red wines are the exquisitely fine “Rose der CEil-de-Perdrix”, strong “Dole”, “Pinot Noir” and “Merlot”. But perhaps the best Bünden wines are made in the Italian town of Veltalin, which since 1815 has become the Swiss canton of Grisons. “Sassella”, “Grumello”, “Inferno” - these are the names of strong ruby-red wines that owe their luxurious bouquet to the generous southern sun. All that remains is to say a few words about all kinds of sweets served for dessert, afternoon tea, and evening coffee. These include fruit pies, Zug cherry cake, carrot cake, Engadine nut cake, and of course, the famous Swiss chocolate.
Economy
Switzerland is one of the most developed and richest countries in the world. Switzerland is a highly developed industrial country with intensive, highly productive agriculture and an almost complete absence of any mineral resources. According to Western economists, it is among the top ten countries in the world in terms of economic competitiveness. The Swiss economy is closely connected with the outside world, primarily with EU countries, thousands of threads of industrial cooperation and foreign trade transactions. OK. 80-85% of Switzerland's trade turnover is with EU countries. More than 50% of all cargo from the northern part of Western Europe to the south and in the opposite direction passes through Switzerland. After noticeable growth in 1998-2000. The country's economy entered a recession. In 2002, GDP grew by 0.5% to CHF 417 billion. fr. Inflation was at 0.6%. The unemployment rate reached 3.3%. The economy employs approx. 4 million people (57% of the population), of which: in industry - 25.8%, including in mechanical engineering - 2.7%, in the chemical industry - 1.7%, in agriculture and forestry - 4.1% , in the service sector - 70.1%, including in trade - 16.4%, in banking and insurance - 5.5%, in the hotel and restaurant business - 6.0%. The policy of neutrality allowed us to avoid the devastation of two world wars.
Policy
Switzerland is a federal republic. The current constitution was adopted in 1999. The federal authorities are in charge of issues of war and peace, foreign relations, army, railways, communications, money issue, approval of the federal budget, etc.
The head of the country is the president, elected every year on a rotation basis from among the members of the Federal Council.
The highest legislative body is the bicameral parliament - the Union Assembly, consisting of the National Council and the Council of Cantons (Chambers of equal rights).
The National Council (200 deputies) is elected by the population for a 4-year term using a system of proportional representation.
The federal structure and constitution of Switzerland were enshrined in the constitutions of 1848, 1874 and 1999.
Now Switzerland is a federation of 26 cantons (20 cantons and 6 half-cantons). Until 1848 (except for the short period of the Helvetic Republic), Switzerland was a confederation). Each canton has its own constitution and laws, but their rights are limited by the federal constitution. Legislative power belongs to Parliament, and executive power belongs to the Federal Council (government).
The Canton Council has 46 deputies, who are elected by the population according to a majority system of relative majority in 20 two-mandate districts and 6 single-mandate districts, that is, 2 people each. from each canton and one from half-canton for 4 years (in some cantons - for 3 years).
All laws adopted by parliament can be approved or rejected in a popular (optional) referendum. To do this, after the adoption of the law, 50 thousand signatures must be collected within 100 days.
The right to vote is granted to all citizens over 18 years of age.
The highest executive power belongs to the government - the Federal Council, consisting of 7 members, each of whom heads one of the departments (ministries). Members of the Federal Council are elected at a joint meeting of both chambers of parliament. All members of the Federal Council alternately hold the positions of President and Vice President.
The foundations of the Swiss state were laid in 1291. Until the end of the 18th century, there were no central government bodies in the country, but all-Union councils - tagsatzung - were periodically convened.