Overview of Switzerland

Profile

Switzerland is a federal republic consisting of 26 cantons, famous for active referendums through direct democracy. Four official languages coexist in a multilingual, multicultural environment. Features Alpine and Jura mountain terrain, international cities like Geneva and financial hub Zurich. High living standards and stable currency CHF, precision machinery, pharmaceuticals, watch industries, plus rich food culture including chocolate and cheese. Hosts numerous international organizations including International Red Cross, serving as a center of international cooperation.

Official name: Swiss Confederation
Common name: Switzerland
Numeric code: 756
Alpha-3 code: CHE
Alpha-2 code: CH
Population: approximately 8.9 million (2024)
Population density: approximately 215 people/km²
Primary languages: German, French, Italian, Romansh
Major religions: Christianity (Catholic, Protestant)
National anthem: Swiss Psalm (Schweizerpsalm)
Calling code: +41
Internet TLD: .ch

History

Originating from the 1291 Perpetual Pact, perpetual neutrality was internationally recognized at the 1815 Congress of Vienna.

Origin is the 1291 pact between cantons Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden. Accumulated wealth through mercenary deployment during medieval and early modern periods; gained de facto independence in 1648 Peace of Westphalia. Modern state established with 1848 federal constitution; direct democracy organized in 1874 amendment. Maintained neutrality through two 20th-century world wars; joined UN in 2002. Continues to balance neutrality and international cooperation while building an advanced economy and welfare state today.

Geography & climate

Alps, Pre-Alps, and Jura Mountains occupy about 60% of the country, with plateaus and lakes scattered in the central region.

Temperate humid to alpine climate (large variation due to elevation differences)

Area: Europe / 41290 km²
Capital: Bern
Largest city: Zurich
Coastal status: No
Major lakes: Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich, Lake Neuchâtel, Lake Constance
Bordering countries: Germany, France, Italy, Austria, Liechtenstein

Natural resources

Hydropower, Rock salt, Timber, Water resources, Scenery, Snow and ice, Diverse alpine plants, Abundant lakes, Wind power, Mineral springs

Politics

Government: Federal republic (direct democracy, parliamentary governance)

Economy

Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)

GDP (nominal): 906 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 731 billion international dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: German, French, Italian, Romansh

Time zone: CET, CEST

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

German-speaking Swiss, French-speaking Swiss, Italian-speaking Swiss, Romansh, Portuguese, Serbs, Turks

Life expectancy

approximately 84 years

Literacy rate

99%

National sports

Football, Ice hockey, Alpine skiing, Tennis, Schwingen (Swiss wrestling), Shooting sports, Curling