Switzerland: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for Switzerland 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank Switzerland: 9
  • Happiness Score Switzerland:7.060

Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.

What is the Happiness Index?

The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.

How is the Happiness Index Calculated?

The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.

In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:

  1. GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
  2. Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
  3. Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
  4. Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
  5. Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
  6. Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.

These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.

What Does the Happiness Index Affect?

The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:

  1. Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
  2. Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
  3. Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
  4. Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.

By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.

Short information

  • Abbreviation of Switzerland. CH.

    Switzerland is known for its political structure, being a federal republic with a unique system of direct democracy

  • notable for its cultural aspects, including its multilingualism and rich traditions in art, music, and cuisine
  • significant in the global economy, with a strong emphasis on banking, finance, and manufacturing
  • Switzerland – A Comprehensive Overview

    History and Origins: Switzerland’s history traces its roots to the medieval period when the Swiss Confederacy emerged as a loose alliance of independent cantons. The Old Swiss Confederacy, formed in 1291, resisted the expansionist ambitions of the Habsburgs and gradually grew in power and influence. During the Reformation era, the confederation split along religious lines, with some cantons embracing Protestantism while others remained Catholic.

    Napoleonic Era and Restoration: In the late 18th century, the French Revolutionary forces invaded Switzerland, leading to the creation of the Helvetic Republic under French influence. After Napoleon’s defeat, the Congress of Vienna in 1815 established Switzerland as a neutral and independent federal state, recognizing its perpetual armed neutrality.

    Modern Switzerland: Switzerland remained neutral during both World Wars, providing a safe haven for refugees and serving as a diplomatic center. Post-war, the country experienced economic growth and prosperity, becoming a hub for international organizations like the United Nations and the International Red Cross. Switzerland joined the United Nations in 2002 while maintaining its policy of armed neutrality.

    Government and Politics: Switzerland is a federal republic with a multi-party democratic system. The Federal Council (Bundesrat) serves as the head of government, comprising seven members elected by the Federal Assembly. The Swiss political system is characterized by decentralized power, direct democracy through frequent referendums, and a consensus-based approach.

    Economy and Industries: Switzerland boasts a highly developed and prosperous economy, known for its stability, low unemployment, and high standard of living. Key industries include banking, finance, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, precision engineering, and tourism. The country is a leader in innovation, with a strong emphasis on research and development.

    Culture and Diversity: Switzerland is a multilingual and multicultural country, with four national languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. It is renowned for its scenic landscapes, including the majestic Swiss Alps, as well as its rich cultural heritage, including Swiss watches, cheese, and chocolate. Switzerland is also home to numerous international organizations and events, such as the World Economic Forum in Davos.

    Travel Tips for Switzerland:

    Best Times to Visit: Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer is peak season for hiking and exploring the Alps, while winter is perfect for skiing and winter sports.

    Cultural Etiquette: Swiss culture values punctuality, privacy, and politeness. Dress conservatively, respect personal space, and avoid excessive noise or displays of wealth.

    Safety: Switzerland is generally a very safe country, but it’s advisable to exercise caution in larger cities and crowded areas, particularly at night.

    Must-See Landmarks: The Matterhorn, Lucerne’s Chapel Bridge, the Jet d’Eau in Geneva, the medieval old towns of Bern and Zurich, and the scenic Swiss villages like Zermatt and Grindelwald.

    Culinary Experiences: Indulge in traditional Swiss dishes like fondue, raclette, rösti, and Züri-Gschnätzlets. Don’t miss the famous Swiss chocolates, cheeses, and wines.

    Living in Switzerland:

    Cost of Living: Switzerland is known for its high cost of living, particularly in major cities like Zurich and Geneva. Housing, healthcare, and food expenses can be substantial.

    Housing: Finding affordable housing can be challenging, especially in urban areas. Rental apartments are common, and the housing market is highly regulated.

    Healthcare: Switzerland has a universal healthcare system, with mandatory health insurance for all residents. The healthcare system is highly regarded for its quality and efficiency.

    Education: Switzerland has an excellent education system, with both public and private schools available. The country is home to several prestigious universities, including ETH Zurich and the University of Geneva.

    Lifestyle: Switzerland offers a high quality of life, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance, outdoor activities, and cultural events. However, integrating into Swiss society can be challenging for foreigners.

    Legal Requirements: Obtaining the appropriate visa or permit is crucial for non-Swiss residents. The process can be complex and may require proof of employment, financial resources, and language proficiency.

    Doing Business in Switzerland:

    Business Culture: Swiss business culture values punctuality, efficiency, and formality. Building trust and maintaining personal relationships are important for successful business dealings.

    Economic Climate: Switzerland has a stable and prosperous economy, with a favorable business environment and low corporate tax rates. It is a global hub for finance, pharmaceuticals, and precision engineering.

    Key Industries: Major industries include banking, finance, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, watchmaking, and machinery.

    Legal Frameworks: Switzerland has a well-developed legal system and robust intellectual property protection laws. Regulations and compliance requirements must be carefully adhered to.

    Negotiation Strategies: Swiss business negotiations tend to be direct and focused on facts and figures. Transparency and adherence to contracts are highly valued.

    Building Relationships: Building strong personal relationships and networking are crucial for successful business in Switzerland. Patience and persistence are key when establishing connections.

    Studying in Switzerland:

    Educational System: Switzerland has a well-respected education system, with a focus on vocational training and academic excellence. Universities offer a range of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

    Top Universities: Some of the top universities in Switzerland include ETH Zurich, University of Zurich, University of Geneva, and the University of Lausanne.

    Student Life: Swiss universities offer a vibrant student life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and opportunities for cultural immersion. However, the cost of living can be high for international students.

    Visa Requirements: International students from non-EU/EFTA countries require a student visa and must meet specific requirements, such as proof of financial resources and health insurance.

    Opportunities for International Students: Switzerland attracts a diverse international student population, with opportunities for research, internships, and cultural exchange programs. Proficiency in one of the national languages is often required or recommended.

    Switzerland: Embracing Progress and Tradition

    Switzerland faces challenges in maintaining its high standard of living, addressing issues like income inequality, and integrating its diverse population. However, its commitment to innovation, neutrality, and respect for its rich cultural heritage positions it well for continued success in the global landscape.

Main facts

1. Location

Switzerland is a landlocked country situated in Western and Central Europe, bordered by Germany, France, Italy, Austria, and Liechtenstein. It is positioned at the intersection of several major European geographic regions, including the Alps, the Swiss Plateau, and the Jura mountains.

2. Map References

Switzerland is located in Western Europe.

3. Area – Comparative

Switzerland has an area of about 41,285 square kilometers (15,940 square miles), making it slightly smaller than the U.S. state of Virginia.

4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries

Switzerland has a total land border length of 1,852 km (1,151 miles) and shares borders with the following countries:

Germany (334 km / 208 miles)

France (573 km / 356 miles)

Italy (740 km / 460 miles)

Austria (164 km / 102 miles)

Liechtenstein (41 km / 25 miles)

5. Coastline

Switzerland is a landlocked country with no coastline.

6. Maritime Claims

Since Switzerland is a landlocked country, it does not have any maritime claims.

7. Climate

Switzerland has a temperate climate, with significant regional variations due to its diverse topography. The Alps have a cooler, alpine climate, while the Swiss Plateau enjoys a more moderate, continental climate. The southern regions, influenced by the Mediterranean, have a milder climate with higher temperatures.

8. Terrain

Switzerland’s terrain is dominated by the Alps, which cover nearly two-thirds of the country’s total area. The Swiss Alps feature numerous peaks, glaciers, and high-altitude valleys. The remaining land consists of the Swiss Plateau, a gently rolling area in the north, and the Jura mountains along the northwestern border.

9. Elevation Extremes

The highest elevation point in Switzerland is the Dufourspitze peak, standing at 4,634 meters (15,203 feet) above sea level, located in the Valais canton. The lowest point is Lake Maggiore, at 195 meters (640 feet) above sea level, situated on the border with Italy.

10. Natural Resources

Switzerland’s major natural resources include water, salt, and arable land. The country has limited mineral resources but possesses significant hydropower potential from its numerous rivers and lakes.

11. Major Bodies of Water

The major bodies of water in Switzerland include Lake Geneva (shared with France), Lake Constance (shared with Germany and Austria), Lake Maggiore (shared with Italy), and the Rhine River, which flows through several countries before reaching the North Sea.

12. Natural Hazards

The primary natural hazards in Switzerland are avalanches, landslides, and flooding due to its mountainous terrain and heavy precipitation. The country is also susceptible to occasional earthquakes and wildfires.

13. Geography – Notes

Switzerland’s unique geography, surrounded by major European powers, has historically served as a strategic location and contributed to its renowned neutrality. The country’s diverse landscapes, from the majestic Alps to fertile valleys, have also played a significant role in shaping its culture and economy, particularly in sectors such as tourism, hydropower, and agriculture.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): 31.80%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: 34,477. CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
  • Agricultural Land( %). 38.40%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  46.8181888.227512.
  • Capital: The capital of Switzerland is  Bern
  • Major Cities:
    • Zurich – Population: 415,215
    • Geneva – Population: 201,818
    • Basel – Population: 177,595
    • Lausanne – Population: 138,372
    • Bern – Population: 133,883
  • Population: 8,574,832
  • Area(Km2): 41277
  • Population Density( P/Km²):219. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:41
  • Official Language(s):Switzerland is German (63.7%), French (20.4%), Italian (6.5%), Romansh (0.5%) spoken.
  • Currency: CHF

Main Economic Indicators

Switzerland has a prosperous and highly developed market economy, driven by a skilled labor force, high-tech manufacturing, and a globally competitive service sector. With a GDP of around $715 billion, it is one of the wealthiest nations globally. Notable economic strengths include low unemployment, a highly skilled workforce, and a robust export sector. Key challenges include high living costs, an aging population, and potential risks from international market exposure.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

– 0.6% (2022 est.)
– 0.6% (2021 est.)
Source: CIA World Factbook

Credit Ratings

– Fitch: AAA (Stable)
– Moody’s: Aaa (Stable)
– Standard & Poor’s: AAA (Stable)

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

– Agriculture: 0.7%
– Industry: 26.9%
– Services: 72.4%

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural Products: grains, fruits, vegetables, meat, milk products
Industrial Products: machinery, chemicals, watches, textiles, precision instruments

Labor Force

Total Labor Force: 5.18 million (2022 est.)
Ranked 71st globally

Current Account Balance

$56.02 billion (2021)
Ranked 7th globally

Exports and Imports

Exports: $301.5 billion (2021)
Key Partners: Germany, United States, China, France, Italy
Main Exports: machinery, chemicals, metals, watches, agricultural products

Imports: $257.6 billion (2021)
Key Partners: Germany, United States, Italy, France, United Kingdom
Main Imports: machinery, chemicals, vehicles, metals, agricultural products

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

$1.052 trillion (31 December 2021 est.)
Includes gold reserves valued at $56.1 billion

  • GDP (Current US$):$703,082,435,360. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
  • Tax Revenue (% of GDP): 10.10%. It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
  • Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): 28.80%. This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
  • Gasoline Price. $1.45. It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
  • Minimum wage. . It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
  • Unemployment Rate (%): 4.58%. It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.

Social Indicators

1. National Identity

Nationality: Swiss (noun), Swiss (adjective)

2. Ethnic Groups

  • Swiss German: 65%
  • French: 18.3%
  • Italian: 10.1%
  • Romansh: 0.5%
  • Other: 6.1%

3. Religions

  • Roman Catholic: 35.8%
  • Protestant: 23.9%
  • Muslim: 5.1%
  • Other Christian: 2.5%
  • Other: 1.6%
  • None: 31.1%

4. Age Structure

  • 0-14 years: 15.16%
  • 15-64 years: 66.36%
  • 65 years and over: 18.48%

5. Dependency Ratios

Total dependency ratio: 51.8%
Youth dependency ratio: 22.8%
Elderly dependency ratio: 29%

6. Median Age

Total median age: 42.7 years
Male median age: 41.7 years
Female median age: 43.7 years

7. Lifestyle Indicators

  • Obesity rate: 19.5% of the population (2016)
  • Alcohol consumption: 11.8 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year (2010)
  • Tobacco use: 27.1% of adults aged 15 and over (2016)
  • Life expectancy at birth: 83.5 years (2022 est.)
  • Life Expectancy at Birth: 83.6. Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
  • Literacy Rate (% of adults): 99%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
  • Birth Rate:10. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
  • Death Rate:8. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
  • Fertility Rate: 1.52. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
  • Internet Users (% of population): 91.4%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
  • Urban Population: 6,332,428. Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
  • Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):28.30%. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.

Infrastructure and Services

Military and Security Forces

The Swiss Armed Forces is an all-militia force consisting of the following branches:

  • Army – The largest branch, composed of infantry, armor, and artillery units.
  • Air Force – Operates fighter jets, transport aircraft, and air defense systems.
  • Civil Defense – Responsible for civilian protection and support during emergencies.

Internal security is maintained by the Cantonal Police forces and the Border Guard Corps.

Military Expenditures

Military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:

  • 2018: 0.7%
  • 2019: 0.7%
  • 2020: 0.7%
  • 2021: 0.7%
  • 2022: 0.8%

Switzerland’s military spending consistently ranks among the lowest globally.

Personnel Strengths

Total active-duty military personnel: 140,000

  • Army: 120,000
  • Air Force: 20,000

Other security services include the Cantonal Police (approximately 17,000 personnel).

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

Switzerland’s military equipment includes:

  • Main battle tanks (e.g., Leopard 2)
  • Fighter jets (e.g., F/A-18 Hornet)
  • Surface-to-air missile systems
  • Domestically produced armored vehicles and artillery

Future acquisitions include the procurement of new fighter jets and ground-based air defense systems.

Military Service Age and Obligation

Switzerland has a conscription system for male citizens, with mandatory military service from the ages of 19 to 34. Women may serve voluntarily.

Military Deployments

Switzerland has a small number of troops deployed as part of international peacekeeping missions, primarily in support roles.

Strategic Military Notes

Switzerland maintains a policy of armed neutrality and focuses on territorial defense. Its military strategy emphasizes deterrence and the protection of Swiss sovereignty and neutrality.

The Swiss Armed Forces play a limited role in international security operations but contribute to humanitarian aid and peacekeeping efforts under UN mandates.

  • Armed Forces Size: 101584. Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
  • Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 4.3
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 68.30%. This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.

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