Stories from Switzerland

A new law aimed at supporting 190,000 healthcare workers is proceeding to the Swiss Council of States for debate.

The Swiss Wool Federation was established last year to consolidate various actors within the Swiss wool sector. The organization aims to bring together sheep producers, transformation structures, and wool processing industries.

Deputies in Châtelais accepted a counter-proposal to increase cultural support. The plan involves investing 3 million francs per year over a five-year period. This follows a discussion regarding the allocation of at least 1% of the cantonal budget to culture.

Swiss elections are set to take place over the next 40 days, with a focus on the June period. A stable government formation is expected following the new elections. The current political crisis does not appear to be imminent according to reports.

The San Gottardo tunnel project has encountered a disturbance zone after 14 months of continuous drilling. The issue was identified near the Göschenen section of the tunnel.

The Biersfelden municipal government has been filming cars on certain neighborhood streets for approximately six months. Drivers who violate traffic bans on these streets will receive a fine of 100 Swiss francs.

A large-scale study conducted in French-speaking Switzerland between 2022 and 2024 shows sexual assaults leave deep and lasting scars beyond initial trauma. The study shows these effects can last longer than previously assumed, with some victims suffering for many years. Documents regarding allegations against professor Daniel Marguerat have been handed over to the Vaud Department of Education for an investigation. The Church also transferred relevant files to the public prosecutor's office to examine potential criminal aspects of the reports. The Synodal Council proposed a meeting with the identified victim, though the individual declined to discuss the episode. The investigation focuses on the administrative responsibility of the university rather than the Church. A scientific study involving approximately 180 women is investigating the long-term consequences of sexual violence.

Voters in Châtelaine will not vote on an initiative to allocate at least 1% of the cantonal budget to culture. Deputies in Châtelaine accepted a counter-project yesterday that provides increased support on a smaller scale.

Authorities in Spiez have implemented measures to prevent the spread of the invasive Japanese beetle. The canton has decided on restrictions including bans on watering green spaces in certain zones during the summer.

Lufthansa subsidiary Swiss will discontinue duty-free sales on flights starting at the end of September. The airline stated that spontaneous purchases from duty-free carts have become the exception as fewer passengers buy items on board. Other onboard services, such as economy class catering, will continue to be offered. The decision follows a decline in onboard sales volume. The decision follows a decline in passenger interest in duty-free products like perfume, cigarettes, and jewelry. The decision marks a shift in the airline's onboard service model. The move was reported by SRF 4 News. The airline cited a steady decline in demand for these products.