Switzerland, officially the Swiss Confederation, is a landlocked country in Central Europe. It is bordered by Germany to the north, France to the west, Austria and Liechtenstein to the east, and Italy to the south. Known for its stunning alpine landscapes, Switzerland is geographically divided among the Swiss Alps, the Swiss Plateau, and the Jura Mountains. The Alps cover approximately 60% of the country. The majority of the population of around 9 million reside on the plateau, where major cities like Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and Bern (the capital) are located. Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh, reflecting its diverse cultural regions.
Switzerland is renowned for its political neutrality, having not participated in a military conflict since 1815. This neutrality has made it a hub for diplomacy and international organizations, including the United Nations and the Red Cross. The country has a strong, innovative economy known for its banking sector and high-quality manufacturing, particularly in precision tools and luxury goods such as watches. Switzerland is a popular tourist destination, known for skiing and hiking in the Alps and picturesque cities like Lucerne and Interlaken. Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe", offers panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.
Recent developments in Switzerland include proposed "Too Big To Fail" reforms aimed at strengthening financial stability following the collapse of Credit Suisse. The Swiss National Bank is navigating monetary policy amid deflationary pressures. In February 2026, the Swiss government approved an aid package for Ukraine related to its energy crisis. Swiss voters are also set to decide on a population cap and a reform of civilian service in June 2026.