Digital Skills in Switzerland Show Strong Access but Clear Inequalities.

Switzerland continues to perform strongly in digital development, but a new report from the Federal Statistical Office (FSO) highlights significant gaps in digital skills across different population groups.

Overall, Switzerland ranks above the EU average in internet access, online services, and digital abilities. Nearly all households—about 99%—have internet access, and most people use the internet daily. However, the report confirms that access alone does not guarantee equal digital participation.

Older adults, people with lower levels of education, and individuals in lower-skilled occupations face the greatest challenges. While more than three-quarters of people aged 16 to 74 have basic digital skills, this figure drops sharply among those over 60 and those without post-compulsory education.

The gap becomes more visible in the use of digital services. Around 81% of residents use e-banking, but only 62% of people over 60 do so. The difference is even more striking in artificial intelligence usage, where 75% of young people aged 15–29 use AI tools compared to just 15% of older adults.

Gender differences also remain. Men use generative AI more often than women, while higher education levels strongly correlate with better digital skills.

The FSO warns that digital inclusion must improve so that all citizens can fully participate in modern society, especially as services increasingly move online.

Swiss Parliament Approves Funding for EU Research Programmes.

Switzerland has taken another important step in strengthening its position in international research and innovation. The Swiss Parliament approved CHF58.3 million in funding for European Union research programmes as part of a supplementary 2026 budget package worth nearly CHF90 million.

The funding will support Switzerland’s participation in major European research initiatives, including Horizon Europe and Euratom. Lawmakers emphasized that maintaining access to these programmes is crucial for Swiss universities, researchers, scientists, and technology companies that rely on international collaboration and advanced research networks.

Parliament reduced the government’s original request of CHF67.3 million by removing a reserve fund that was no longer necessary. Despite the reduction, the approved funding ensures Switzerland can continue contributing to and benefiting from some of the world’s largest research and innovation projects.

Supporters of the measure argued that Switzerland must remain connected to global scientific developments and avoid another period of exclusion from key European research platforms. They stressed that research cooperation plays a vital role in driving innovation, economic growth, technological advancement, and international competitiveness.

The budget supplement also includes additional funding for the European Space Agency, Swiss rail cargo services, and transportation infrastructure projects. The decision highlights Switzerland’s continued commitment to science, technology, and international research partnerships.

Swiss Parliament Boosts Non-Profit Housing Fund.

The Swiss Parliament has approved a significant increase in funding designed to support non-profit housing projects and improve access to affordable homes.

The Senate voted in favor of increasing the Fonds de Roulement by CHF150 million for the period between 2030 and 2034. This revolving fund provides loans to non-profit housing organizations for new construction projects, property renovations, and the purchase of residential buildings.

The measure forms part of Switzerland’s broader strategy to address housing shortages and rising property costs affecting many regions of the country. Affordable housing remains a major concern for households facing increasing rents and limited housing availability.

In addition to expanding the fund, the Senate also agreed to continue a federal guarantee program that supports housing development. Through this mechanism, the Swiss Confederation guarantees bonds issued by the financing center for non-profit housing developers. These guarantees help organizations secure financing under more favorable conditions and lower borrowing costs.

For this purpose, Parliament approved a commitment credit worth CHF1.92 billion covering the period from 2027 to 2033. The financial backing is expected to provide long-term stability for housing initiatives and encourage additional investment in affordable residential projects.

The House of Representatives had previously endorsed the same proposals, allowing the measures to move forward with broad parliamentary support.

Housing affordability has become an increasingly important issue across Switzerland, particularly in urban centers where demand continues to outpace supply. Rising rents and limited housing stock have placed pressure on many families, students, and lower-income residents.

Supporters of the funding expansion argue that strengthening the non-profit housing sector will help create sustainable, affordable living options while supporting balanced urban development. The new investments are expected to play a key role in addressing Switzerland’s long-term housing needs.

Fribourg Secures Jewish and Muslim Burial Rights.

The city of Fribourg has reached a constructive agreement with Jewish and Muslim community representatives regarding burial arrangements at St Leonhard Cemetery. The agreement establishes clear rules for the long-term use of burial plots and provides greater certainty for affected communities.

Under the new arrangement, larger family graves capable of accommodating more than eight burials will be permitted in designated sections of the cemetery. In addition, permanent burial rights, a key concern for both religious communities, have been formally guaranteed.

City officials stated that the agreement balances historical preservation with modern social and cultural needs. Fribourg aims to promote inclusion, mutual respect, and equal recognition of all residents regardless of their religious background.

The cemetery’s historic Jewish section, established in 1912 and protected as a heritage site, will remain preserved. Authorities emphasized that the new regulations will not affect the historical character of this important area.

Concerns had emerged in 2024 when proposed cemetery regulations raised fears within the Jewish community about potentially high maintenance costs. The final agreement addresses these concerns by allowing existing Jewish graves to remain permanently protected. The city will continue providing burial spaces free of charge, except for maintenance-related expenses.

The same principles will apply to a newly designated Muslim burial section. Permanent burial rights are guaranteed, and the orientation of graves will continue to respect Islamic traditions.

The Jewish community welcomed the outcome, describing it as a constructive and respectful compromise. Community representatives praised the agreement as a practical solution that respects religious customs while supporting social harmony.

The agreement reflects Switzerland’s ongoing efforts to accommodate religious diversity and ensure that public institutions adapt to the needs of a multicultural society while preserving historical heritage and community values.

Swiss Parliament Moves Against Unsafe Temu Products

Swiss lawmakers are pushing for stricter regulations on Chinese online retailers such as Temu and Shein, citing growing concerns over product safety and consumer protection.

The Swiss House of Representatives has joined the Senate in supporting measures that would increase oversight of products entering Switzerland from foreign online marketplaces. Every day, tens of thousands of parcels arrive in the country from China, raising concerns about compliance with Swiss safety standards.

Politicians argue that many low-cost products sold through online platforms fail to meet the strict safety requirements applied to goods sold by Swiss retailers. Several incidents have highlighted the risks. Reports include electronic chargers overheating and melting, as well as electrical devices allegedly exploding and causing injuries.

Parliamentarian Matthias Bregy stated that authorities have observed numerous products that do not comply with Swiss safety and security standards. Under the proposed measures, foreign online platforms would be required to clearly declare when products fail to meet Swiss regulations. Authorities would also increase inspections of imported packages.

Consumer protection groups, however, believe the proposed measures may not be sufficient. Consumer advocate Sara Stalder argues that the enormous volume of daily imports makes effective inspection and product declarations difficult to enforce. She believes stronger legal accountability for online platforms would provide better protection for consumers.

Supporters of the parliamentary proposal say enhanced risk-based inspections are necessary to create a fair marketplace. Swiss retailers must already comply with strict regulations and safety requirements, while foreign platforms often operate under different standards.

The issue now moves to the Swiss government for further consideration and implementation. The debate reflects growing international concerns about product quality, consumer safety, and regulatory oversight in the rapidly expanding cross-border e-commerce sector.

As online shopping continues to grow, Switzerland is seeking ways to balance consumer choice, competitive pricing, and public safety while ensuring that all products sold to Swiss customers meet appropriate standards.

Federal Court Judge Says Affair Was Not Illegal.

Swiss Federal Court judge Yves Donzallaz has publicly defended his past relationship with fellow judge Beatrice van de Graaf, stating that while the affair may have been inappropriate, it was not illegal under Swiss law.

In an interview with the Tamedia newspaper group, Donzallaz explained that the relationship, which lasted for nearly a year, never violated legal requirements governing members of Switzerland’s highest court. According to him, the relationship ended around Easter 2026 and never developed into a shared long-term living arrangement.

The controversy centers on provisions within the Federal Court Act that prohibit judges who are in a long-term cohabitation from serving on the same judicial panels. Donzallaz argued that the legal definition of cohabitation did not apply in their case because they did not share a residence or maintain a common household.

The judge stated that he and van de Graaf spent limited time together and never worked on the same judicial panel during their relationship. As a result, he believes there was no conflict of interest and no legal obligation to disclose the relationship.

The matter gained public attention after media reports revealed the relationship in April. In response, federal judges held an extraordinary meeting in May and concluded that romantic relationships between sitting members of the Federal Court are inconsistent with the court’s professional customs and ethical expectations.

An independent panel of experts is currently examining questions related to judicial independence and governance within Switzerland’s highest court. The panel is expected to submit its findings to the court’s Administrative Commission by the end of June.

Despite the controversy, Donzallaz has confirmed his intention to seek another term on the Federal Court for the 2027–2032 period. He maintains that he acted within the law and believes he has committed no wrongdoing. However, due to age limits, he would leave office in 2029 if re-elected.

The case has sparked a wider national debate about judicial transparency, ethics, and the balance between private life and public responsibility within Switzerland’s legal system.

Swiss Car Market Stalls as EV Sales Surge.

Switzerland’s car market remained largely unchanged during the first five months of 2026, as rising demand for electric vehicles helped offset declining sales of traditional petrol and diesel-powered cars.

According to figures released by Auto Schweiz, approximately 91,300 new vehicles were registered between January and May 2026. This total is nearly identical to the number recorded during the same period last year, indicating that the overall market has stagnated despite significant changes in consumer preferences.

The strongest growth came from electric mobility. Registrations of fully electric vehicles increased by 15.5% compared with the first five months of 2025. Plug-in hybrid vehicles performed even better, recording a 20.1% increase over the same period.

Industry experts attribute the growing popularity of electric vehicles partly to higher fuel prices and increasing consumer interest in environmentally friendly transportation. Improved charging infrastructure and a wider range of electric vehicle models have also contributed to stronger demand.

Meanwhile, traditional combustion-engine vehicles continued to lose market share. New registrations of petrol and diesel-powered cars declined further, reflecting the ongoing shift toward cleaner technologies and lower-emission transport solutions.

The latest figures highlight the transformation taking place within Switzerland’s automotive sector. While overall vehicle sales have remained stable, the composition of the market is changing rapidly as more buyers choose electric and hybrid alternatives.

Auto Schweiz noted that the growth in electric vehicle sales was essential in maintaining overall market stability. Without the strong performance of electric and plug-in hybrid models, the Swiss car market would likely have recorded a decline.

As Switzerland continues its transition toward sustainable mobility, electric vehicles are expected to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of the country’s transport sector.

Memorial Concert Honors Crans-Montana Fire Victims.

Five months after the tragic fire at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, a special memorial concert was held to honor those who lost their lives and to support survivors still recovering from their injuries.

The event, titled “Tribute to the Angels of Crans-Montana,” was organized by the Italian Embassy in Bern and served as a moment of reflection, remembrance, and solidarity. The concert aimed to commemorate the young victims of one of Switzerland’s most heartbreaking recent tragedies.

The fire claimed the lives of 41 people and left 115 others injured, several of them seriously. The disaster deeply affected families, friends, and communities both in Switzerland and abroad.

Under the artistic direction of renowned violinist Michael Guttman, the Crans Montana Classics concert featured an ensemble of 12 string musicians. The performers presented a selection of emotional and inspiring works by celebrated composers including Giacomo Puccini, Maurice Ravel, Johann Sebastian Bach, and Benjamin Britten.

More than 250 people attended the memorial gathering. Among those present were Italian Ambassador Gian Lorenzo Cornado, Swiss Federal Councillor Beat Jans, Valais State Council President Christophe Darbellay, and Crans-Montana Mayor Nicolas Féraud.

The concert created a solemn atmosphere where attendees could remember the victims, express support for the injured, and reflect on the importance of community solidarity during difficult times.

As Crans-Montana continues to heal from the tragedy, the memorial concert served as a powerful reminder of the lives lost and the resilience shown by survivors, families, and the wider community.

The event highlighted the enduring bonds between Switzerland and Italy and demonstrated the commitment of both nations to honor the memory of those affected by the devastating fire.

Swiss Aviation Accidents Rise by 20% in 2025.

The number of reported aviation accidents in Switzerland increased by approximately 20% in 2025, according to the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA). The rise reflects a broader increase in reported incidents across both recreational and general aviation sectors.

FOCA data shows that four separate accidents in recreational aviation resulted in a total of six fatalities. In addition, one fatal incident occurred in agricultural helicopter operations. Importantly, no fatal accidents were recorded in commercial aviation during the same period.

Overall, FOCA processed 14,972 incident reports throughout the year, marking a significant workload for aviation safety authorities. Officials attribute the increase not only to a higher number of incidents but also to improved reporting practices within the aviation sector.

Another contributing factor highlighted by FOCA is the increase in air traffic activity, alongside growing concerns over GPS signal interference, which has affected navigation systems in certain cases.

The reported incidents include a rise in near-collisions, unauthorized airspace entries, and conflicts involving drones. Authorities also noted that some incidents occurred on the ground, particularly at smaller and more complex airfields where operations are more challenging.

The Federal Office of Civil Aviation emphasized that while the increase in reported cases appears significant, it also reflects improved monitoring and reporting standards, which contribute to better overall aviation safety management.

Swiss aviation authorities continue to focus on reducing risks through stricter airspace regulation, better pilot training, and enhanced coordination with drone operators and air traffic systems.

Thousands Explore New RTS Media Centre in Lausanne.

More than 15,000 people visited the new production site of Swiss public broadcaster RTS in Lausanne-Ecublens during a highly successful open weekend event. The new facility, located on the campus of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), welcomed visitors of all ages eager to discover the world of media production and broadcasting.

Large crowds gathered even before the official opening, with many visitors exploring exhibitions, interactive activities, and behind-the-scenes tours. Families, students, and media enthusiasts had the opportunity to experience how television, radio, and digital content are produced.

One of the most popular attractions allowed visitors to step into the role of a journalist by reading news from a teleprompter and presenting weather forecasts. Guests also explored RTS news vehicles, production studios, and broadcasting facilities, gaining a unique insight into the daily work of media professionals.

The event featured live radio broadcasts, public podcast recordings, and guided tours of the new production centre. Studio 1 attracted particularly strong interest, with audiences filling seats to watch programmes being produced in real time.

RTS announced that public engagement activities will continue throughout June, offering additional opportunities for visitors to explore media careers, content creation, and public service broadcasting. Registration will be required for many of these activities.

The broadcaster also revealed plans to expand its media education programme. From next year, RTS will increase the number of workshops from 300 to 400 annually, with most sessions remaining free for schools and the public.

The new Lausanne-Ecublens production hub replaces several older facilities in Lausanne and Geneva, creating a modern centre for broadcasting, digital media production, and audience engagement.

RTS expects to welcome approximately 10,000 visitors each year through guided tours, workshops, and educational activities, strengthening its connection with the Swiss public and future generations of media professionals.