Swiss Government Warns Food Waste Remains Too High.

The Switzerland government has warned that food waste levels across the country remain far too high, despite ongoing national efforts to reduce waste by 2030.

In an interim report released on Wednesday, authorities revealed that food waste declined by only around 5% between 2017 and 2024, falling well short of the targeted 25% reduction by 2025.

Switzerland launched its national action plan against food waste in 2022, aiming to cut avoidable food losses in half by the year 2030. While some sectors have shown measurable improvement, officials say overall progress remains too slow.

The retail industry achieved the strongest results, reducing food waste by approximately 20% through improved inventory management, discount systems, and food redistribution initiatives.

However, Swiss households continue to lag behind, remaining one of the biggest contributors to unnecessary food waste. Authorities say consumer behavior, over-purchasing, and poor meal planning remain major challenges.

The government emphasized that reducing food waste is essential for environmental protection, resource conservation, and climate goals, as discarded food contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.

Officials are now calling for stronger public awareness campaigns and greater cooperation between households, businesses, and food service sectors to accelerate progress toward the 2030 target.

Food waste reduction has become a major sustainability issue across Europe as governments seek to improve resource efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Switzerland Reintroduces French Border Checks for G7 Summit

Switzerland will temporarily reintroduce border checks along parts of its border with France ahead of the upcoming G7 Summit 2026 in Évian.

The Swiss government confirmed on Wednesday that the temporary controls will remain in effect from June 10 to June 19 as part of heightened security measures surrounding the summit.

Although the G7 meeting will take place in Évian, Swiss authorities stated that nearby regions including Geneva, Lausanne, and the wider Lake Geneva area face increased security risks during the international gathering.

Officials noted that previous G7 summits have sometimes resulted in violent protests, acts of sabotage, public disorder, and property damage. Authorities also highlighted concerns linked to the current geopolitical climate and the large concentration of international organizations based in Geneva.

The request to temporarily restore border controls was submitted by the Canton of Geneva, reflecting growing concerns about public safety and regional security during the summit period.

The G7 Summit is scheduled to take place from June 15 to June 17, bringing together leaders from major industrialized nations to discuss global political, economic, and security issues.

Swiss authorities are expected to increase police presence and strengthen monitoring around border crossings, transportation hubs, and sensitive areas during the event.

Swiss Luxury Property Prices Continue to Rise

Luxury real estate prices in Switzerland continued to rise in 2025, although the pace of growth has started to slow, according to a new report by UBS.

The bank’s latest “UBS Luxury Property Focus 2026” report shows that Swiss luxury properties increased in value by an average of 3% over the past year. Despite the rise, growth in the luxury market was lower than the overall property market.

Luxury homes in mountain resort regions remained especially popular among wealthy buyers, particularly international investors seeking premium alpine properties.

According to the report, luxury property prices in Swiss mountain destinations climbed by around 6% last year, driven largely by demand from affluent foreign buyers.

St. Moritz remained the most expensive luxury property market in Switzerland, with average prices reaching approximately CHF52,000 per square metre.

It was followed by Gstaad and Verbier, where luxury real estate prices averaged around CHF45,000 per square metre.

UBS analysts noted that while demand for premium Swiss real estate remains strong, the market may soon stabilize as price growth slows and affordability pressures increase.

Switzerland’s political stability, secure economy, and attractive alpine lifestyle continue to make the country one of Europe’s most desirable destinations for high-end property investment.

Switzerland remains one of Europe’s most sought-after locations for luxury real estate investment due to its political stability, robust economy, and appealing alpine lifestyle.

Switzerland’s political stability, secure economy, and attractive alpine lifestyle continue to make the country one of Europe’s most desirable destinations for high-end property investment.

Switzerland Warns of Worsening Security Situation

The Switzerland government has warned that the country’s security situation has deteriorated significantly over the past year amid rising geopolitical tensions across Europe and the Middle East.

In its latest national security report released on Wednesday, Swiss authorities stated that growing international instability is increasing pressure on Switzerland to contribute more actively to European security efforts.

The report highlights that Switzerland is being directly affected by Russia’s hybrid warfare strategies, including cyber threats, disinformation campaigns, and espionage activities. Officials also noted that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to create broader security risks and political instability.

According to the government, global geopolitical developments are now having a direct impact on Switzerland’s internal security environment.

Authorities warned that the terrorist threat remains heavily influenced by jihadist movements, while violent extremism from both far-left and far-right groups continues to pose risks inside Europe.

Swiss President Meets Pope Leo XIV at Vatican.

Guy Parmelin met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on Wednesday morning ahead of the swearing-in ceremony of the Pontifical Swiss Guard.

During the meeting, both leaders discussed plans for the construction of new barracks for the Swiss Guard within the Vatican. The project is expected to begin next year as part of preparations for the 500th anniversary of the historic Sack of Rome on May 6, 1527.

The anniversary commemorates the sacrifice of 147 Swiss Guards who lost their lives while defending Pope Clement VII against the forces of Emperor Charles V during the attack on Rome.

President Parmelin emphasized the symbolic importance of beginning construction work on May 6, aligning the project with the historic anniversary celebrations.

However, the Vatican is still awaiting approval from UNESCO before major construction can proceed. Since the Vatican is a UNESCO-listed heritage site, international authorization is required for significant infrastructure work.

Parmelin stated that Switzerland hopes to cooperate closely with the Vatican in preparing for the anniversary events, describing them as highly significant for both the Catholic Church and Switzerland’s national heritage.

79-Year-Old Man Loses CHF 40,000 in Romance Scam

A 79-year-old retired man in Winterthur has lost more than CHF 40,000 after becoming the victim of a suspected romance scam, according to local police.

The Stadtpolizei Winterthur confirmed the arrest of two suspects linked to the case. Investigators say the victim became acquainted earlier this year with two women from Romania, who later visited him at his home.

Authorities stated that the relationship quickly developed into an emotionally close and romantic connection. During this period, the suspects allegedly requested financial support by claiming to face urgent personal problems, including housing debt, medical expenses for a family member, and notary fees.

Over several meetings, the elderly victim reportedly transferred or handed over more than CHF 40,000 to the individuals involved.

The man later became suspicious and filed a complaint with Winterthur police, prompting a detailed investigation.

On April 24, police arrested a 29-year-old woman with German-Romanian dual citizenship and a 36-year-old Turkish man while they allegedly attempted to collect an additional CHF 6,500 from the victim.

Both suspects are currently under investigation for repeated fraud offences and have been handed over to prosecutors.

Switzerland to Cover Hospital Bills for Crans-Montana Fire Victims

The government of Switzerland has confirmed that it will cover hospital treatment costs for Italian victims of the Crans-Montana fire, ensuring that families will no longer receive medical billing statements.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin announced the decision during an official visit to Rome, where he met Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.

The discussions were described as open and constructive, focusing on improving cross-border cooperation and addressing concerns related to emergency medical billing for disaster victims.

Parmelin confirmed that Switzerland will handle any treatment costs not covered by insurance through its national victim support system. He also stated that the practice of sending hospital bill copies to victims’ families will be discontinued to prevent further distress.

Authorities from both countries will continue close coordination to ensure fair and compassionate handling of such cases in the future. Swiss officials emphasized that the priority is to provide support and dignity to those affected by the tragedy.

The decision comes as part of broader efforts to improve humanitarian response protocols in cross-border emergencies. Parmelin also noted that the Swiss Federal Council will align its procedures with existing legal frameworks while ensuring better communication between authorities.

During his visit, the Swiss President also attended preparations for the swearing-in ceremony of the Swiss Guard at the Vatican and is expected to meet Pope Leo XIV.

Swiss Travel Safety Concerns Rise in 2026

A new survey reveals that people in Switzerland are becoming increasingly concerned about safety when travelling abroad, even as demand for holidays remains strong.

According to the latest travel barometer by the Touring Club Switzerland and JRC Bern, one-third of respondents now consider international travel rather unsafe. This marks a sharp rise from 19% last year, with only 2021—during the pandemic—showing higher uncertainty levels.

Despite growing concerns, travel demand continues to recover. The proportion of people reducing or avoiding travel has dropped from 61% last year to 49%, indicating that a majority of Swiss residents still plan to travel abroad.

The survey highlights that political instability and global conflicts are the main factors influencing travel decisions. Around two-thirds of respondents cited these risks, leading to a noticeable shift toward European destinations, while interest in North America has declined.

Travel habits are also evolving. The preference for private cars has decreased significantly—from 67% two years ago to 51% today. Cars are now almost equally preferred alongside airplanes (51%) and trains (50%), reflecting a more balanced approach to transportation.

The study was conducted between February and March, covering more than 1,000 participants across Switzerland’s German-, French-, and Italian-speaking regions, along with additional TCS members.

Experts conclude that while Swiss travelers remain active, their choices are increasingly shaped by safety concerns, geopolitical uncertainty, and global developments.

Swiss Fitness Memberships Reach Record High

Fitness participation in Switzerland has reached a new record, with gym memberships and industry revenue rising significantly over the past year, according to the latest Key Data Study 2026.

The report shows that around 1.45 million people were registered in fitness centres last year—roughly one-fifth of the adult population. This growth has contributed to a 4.4% increase in industry turnover, bringing total revenue to approximately CHF 1.36 billion.

The data also indicates a steady rise in the number of fitness centres across the country, reflecting growing demand for health and wellness services.

Young adults aged 20 to 29 were the most active group in gym memberships. Industry body Swiss Active linked this trend to a broader “health megatrend,” particularly influencing younger generations who are more focused on fitness, lifestyle, and wellbeing.

Demand has increased for services such as personal training, nutritional guidance, and wellness coaching. However, the study also found a slight decline in participation in digital training programs and group fitness classes.

Experts say the rise in gym participation reflects a stronger national focus on preventive health, physical fitness, and mental wellbeing, especially among younger adults.

The Swiss fitness industry continues to expand as lifestyle changes and health awareness drive more people toward structured exercise routines.

Gotthard Pass Reopens Ahead of Holiday Traffic.

The Gotthard Pass in Switzerland will reopen to road traffic on Friday at 11 a.m., earlier than expected due to favourable weather conditions.

The Federal Roads Office confirmed that clearing and repair work progressed faster than planned because of low snowfall this season. As a result, the winter closure of the pass will be lifted ahead of the busy holiday travel period.

The reopening is expected to ease traffic on the heavily used north–south route along the A2 motorway, especially during the upcoming Ascension and Whitsun holiday weekends.

With the pass reopening, the seasonal extension at the Göschenen exit will also return to operation. The extended three-kilometre lane, starting near Wassen, is designed to reduce congestion and prevent traffic from diverting into nearby villages.

On the southern side, a special traffic lane at Airolo will also be activated to manage holiday traffic flow more efficiently.

Authorities stated that these measures aim to improve safety and reduce congestion along one of Switzerland’s most important transit routes, which connects northern and southern Europe through the Alps.

The early reopening is expected to benefit both local commuters and international travelers using the route during the peak travel season.