UBS reports Q4 profit, finishes 2009 on a loss
In a significant turn-around from last year, Swiss bank UBS has posted a fourth-quarter net profit of SFr1.205 billion ($1.12 billion).
“Ghost” chalet scam targets rich Verbier skiers
A stunning luxury six-bed holiday home for rent in the heart of Verbier. The catch? The SFr12,300 ($11,400)-a-week house, Chalet Lumière, does not actually exist.
Numbered accounts profit from bank crisis
The fabled numbered Swiss bank account is shrouded in mystery – a mystery scarcely less deep than that surrounding their holders' identity.
Healthcare recruitment "harms poorest nations"
The high proportion of foreign healthcare workers in Switzerland could have catastrophic consequences for developing countries, says an international health expert.
Swiss face hard choices over bank secrecy
The future of bank secrecy, the legality of buying stolen data and the nature of the relations between Switzerland and Germany continues to make waves.
Cancer cases could double in 20 years
As the Swiss Cancer League marks its centenary, its president tells swissinfo.ch that the expected rise in cancer cases will present never seen before challenges.
Chinese may slap Swiss wrists over Uighur affair
Experts have played down fears that Swiss trade with China will be hit hard by Switzerland’s decision to give asylum to two Uighurs from China’s Xinjiang province.
Valencia prepares for a unique regatta
The Spanish Mediterranean port of Valencia is bracing itself to once again host the legendary America's Cup sailing race, which starts on Monday.
Politicians in disarray over banking secrecy
The threat that Germany may use stolen Swiss bank data has prompted considerable confusion among the main political parties over the future of banking secrecy.
America’s Cup is finally set to sail
Yachting’s biggest, most technologically advanced, most expensive – and one of its most bitter – contests will finally splash down on Valencia, Spain in a few days.
Alien’s Swiss daddy is no artist of the weak
The father of Sigourney Weaver’s alien has just turned 70, and while H.R. Giger is justifiably famous for his science-fiction monster(s), his art goes far beyond the movie business.
Corporate giants outgrow Swiss roots
Last month seven chief executives of the top 20 Swiss firms were Swiss. Enter American Joe Jimenez as new Novartis CEO and the number is now down to six.
Guantanamo detainees to require special therapy
The three Guantanamo detainees that Switzerland has accepted to resettle will need special therapy to help them integrate after years in prison.
Papers say data theft highlights Swiss weakness
The government’s conciliatory tone toward Germany’s plan to use stolen Swiss bank data to find tax cheats shows just how problematic Swiss banking has become, newspapers say.
Switzerland to take in two Guantanamo inmates
The cabinet says it will admit two Guantanamo prisoners on humanitarian grounds. The Uighurs from the Chinese province of Xinjiang have not been charged with any crime.
Baby Doc assets saga takes another twist
Switzerland says it will continue to freeze the assets of former Haitian dictator Jean-Claude “Baby Doc” Duvalier in a bid to keep them out of the hands of his family.
Swiss pharmaceutical duo “best in global class”
Switzerland’s big two pharmaceutical companies posted contrasting 2009 results but analysts view Novartis and Roche as the most solid firms in their global field.
The hills are alive with the sound of sirens
On Wednesday Switzerland reverberated to the sound of more than 8,000 sirens as the country carried out its annual test of the devices.
Haitians face shelter crisis
More than three weeks after the devastating earthquake that hit Haiti, the government and aid agencies are ramping up relief operations as needs become clearer.
Berlin bank data attack threatens Switzerland
Germany has confirmed that it intends to defy protests from Bern by paying for stolen Swiss bank data to help track down domestic tax evaders.
Weighing the needs of patient and researcher
Voters will have the final say in March on a constitutional amendment aimed at preserving human dignity in biomedical experiments and ensuring freedom of research.
Libyan acquittal leads to cautious optimism
Observers say the overturning of a Swiss businessman’s Libyan jail term for visa violations is a positive step in the resolution of the Tripoli-Bern diplomatic spat.
Germany tempted by stolen bank data
To buy or not to buy? The German authorities appear tempted by the offer by an unknown informant to sell them stolen bank client data on possible tax evaders.
Report spotlights “invisible” foreign minors
Thousands of foreign unaccompanied children disappear each year from European reception centres and institutions, according to the Swiss charity Terre des hommes.
Philosophical Federer reflects on success
Swiss tennis star Roger Federer stayed up all night drinking champagne with friends to celebrate his fourth Australian Open and record 16th grand slam title.
Racing boss Sauber gets clean restart
After a tense few months when the fate of his stable was in the balance, Swiss racing boss Peter Sauber has unveiled his new cars in Valencia.
Flawless Federer secures fourth Australian title
Switzerland’s Roger Federer has won his fourth Australian Open championship after delivering a sterling performance against Britain’s Andy Murray.
Did Davos 2010 break or create barriers?
Departing World Economic Forum (WEF) delegates face the challenge of breathing new life into the economy after discussing many options and potential pitfalls in Davos.
Swiss technology tackles greying society
Technological advances could meet some of the challenges posed by an ageing global population, but the World Economic Forum (WEF) has heard that more needs to be done.
Anti-vandalism tactic divides Swiss
Local acts of vandalism rarely make the national news, but the recent “naming and shaming” of young perpetrators in a St Gallen village triggered a general debate.
Harsh rules “could drive bankers underground”
Heavy-handed financial rules could create a shadow banking system beyond the control of regulators, the head of the Swiss Bankers Association warns swissinfo.ch.
Dominant Federer reaches final Down Under
Switzerland’s world number one tennis player Roger Federer has beaten France’s Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 in the semifinal of the Australian Open.
Investment urged for Swiss mountain farms
Investing in mountain farms is crucial to stem the steady flow of people packing their bags and leaving high-alpine regions, warns a Swiss foundation.
Big business urged to restore Haiti’s economy
Humanitarian aid and the role of companies in helping to rebuild disaster-struck Haiti dominated proceedings on day two at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Roche vilified in Davos for transplant drug
The Swiss pharmaceutical giant Roche has been slammed by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) for supporting China’s “unethical transplantation practices”.
Campaign targets boozy Brits on the piste
Mixing young Britons with “happy hours” and the hazardous Alps can prove to be a dangerous cocktail, warns a new British government safety campaign.
Sarkozy opens WEF with calls for regulation
French President Nicolas Sarkozy has offered a broad riposte to unrestrained free-market capitalism at the World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting in Davos.
Cabinet wants more talks with US over UBS data
The Swiss cabinet on Wednesday said it needed to work out a new solution with the United States over its demand for account details on thousands of clients of bank UBS.
Booming civilian service raises questions
A surge in people wanting to join the Swiss civilian service has prompted calls for a rethink on national conscription and led some politicians to go on the offensive.
Surprise Novartis CEO seen as "logical” choice
The Stanford-educated new CEO of Novartis will have to steer the Swiss drugs giant as it integrates new businesses and fends off increasing competition.
Experts reflect on spike in prison population
The recent rise in prisoner figures has cast light on the impact of penal reforms and regional variations in detention policy.
WEF changes its face but not its soul
Praised and derided in equal doses, the World Economic Forum (WEF) has undergone some facelifts over the past 40 years, but its basic function has remained intact.
Novartis changes CEO amid record results
Swiss pharmaceutical giant Novartis has announced Daniel Vasella will be stepping down as CEO from February.
Voters used minaret ban to halt spread of Islam
November’s vote against minaret construction in Switzerland can be seen as a signal by voters against the spread of Islam, according to analysis of the result.
Hidden heritage hopes for visibility
The Egyptian pyramids and the Great Wall of China may be spectacular, but the hidden sites of prehistoric villages are just as much a part of the world’s heritage.
Public Eye keeps close watch on Davos
Swiss non-governmental organisations are heading to the World Economic Forum where they will name and shame “the nastiest corporate players of the year”.
Support for young “sans papiers” grows
Political support is growing to improve the plight of thousands of children of illegal immigrants who have spent most of their lives in Switzerland.
Arab green energy drive offers opportunity
Swiss firms have been urged to take advantage of a growing shift to green energy in the Middle East as Arab countries seek to scale down their dependency on oil.
A surgeon on a heartfelt mission
Heart surgeon René Prêtre, Swiss of the Year, brings passion and dedication to his job which sees him treating children in both Switzerland and Mozambique.
“Adoption is a last resort”
Flying planeloads of newly orphaned children out of Haiti is “reprehensible”, an adoption expert tells swissinfo.ch.
Sweet double win for Cuche at Kitzbühel
Didier Cuche of Switzerland has captured the top spot in the men’s downhill at Kitzbühel, his second World Cup win in two days.
UBS client wins appeal against data transfer
A Swiss court has upheld an appeal by a UBS bank client against the handing over of customer details to the United States tax authorities.
Dr Doom predicts more economic woe
Swiss-born stock markets guru Marc Faber believes the global economy is standing on the verge of rampant inflation, national debt default and renewed volatility.
Haiti appeal finds strong support from Swiss
More than SFr20 million ($19.2 million) was pledged on Thursday in a national fundraising day to help the victims of the earthquake in Haiti.
Ramadan pleased as Washington clears his name
Swiss Muslim scholar Tariq Ramadan has expressed relief after the United States lifted his six-year visa ban, effectively clearing him of alleged terrorism links.
“No surprise” that Haiti literally collapsed
Maybe some of the buildings in Port-au-Prince wouldn’t have buckled in last week’s earthquake had the roofs been better attached to the walls.
Science of the small has big potential
Nanotechnology, a science dealing with minute particles, has huge potential for Switzerland, according to a report.
Leaders to meet in Davos to "rebuild" the world
Rethinking global cooperation and business values will be at the heart of talks at the 40th World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting in Davos next week, say WEF executives.
Obama discovers the flip side of change
Barack Obama was inaugurated as president of the United States on January 20, 2009, on an unprecedented wave of popular euphoria.
New Post chairman named to reassure public
The government has appointed a new Swiss Post chairman in an effort to put an end to a power struggle at the helm of the state-owned company.
Frustration grows at pace of Haiti aid effort
One week after the devastating earthquake crippled Haiti, it is still proving difficult to translate international goodwill into practical help.
New biodiesel factory fuels energy debate
The go ahead to build a biodiesel processing plant in Switzerland has once again put the spotlight on the potential – and controversy – of growing crops for fuel.
Swiss Post chairman bows out under pressure
After just nine months in office, the chairman of Swiss Post, Claude Béglé, has bowed to pressure from all sides to resign.
Swiss steer clear of proposed US bank levy
Switzerland’s refusal to introduce a United States-style bank tax has drawn speculation about possible competitive advantages for the Swiss financial sector.
Quiet optimism on display at Geneva watch fairs
Luxury watch trade fairs have opened in Geneva this week amid signs that wealthy shoppers are again splashing out on prestige timepieces.
Appeals for ex-UBS banker gather pace
A campaign is building in the United States to defend Bradley Birkenfeld, the former employee of Swiss bank UBS who has started serving a 40-month prison term.
Chile repatriates tribal remains from Zurich
The remains of five Chilean tribesmen have been repatriated from Switzerland more than a century after they were kidnapped to be exhibited at European fairs.
Yemen faces the abyss
Yemen is once again in the international spotlight as a harbour for terrorists since the failed attack on a United States passenger plane at the end of December.
Federer aims to go fourth Down Under
World tennis number one Roger Federer is hoping to start the year with a bang by adding the 2010 Australian Open to his titles of 2004, 2006 and 2007.
Janka stays on course for World Cup success
Carlo Janka was in top form at the prestigious Lauberhorn downhill on Saturday, taking his fourth World Cup victory of the season.
Sex, lies and orchids
Scientists have found out why orchids resort to sexual trickery to lure in male insects - it leads to a more efficient pollinating system.
Two Didiers carry Swiss hopes at historic race
Swiss skiers Didier Cuche and Didier Défago have little time to ponder their Olympic medal prospects during a January World Cup schedule stacked with classic races.
Veteran diplomat to take on financial headache
Switzerland has assigned Michael Ambühl, a top diplomat, to defend the country’s battered financial sector from increasing international political pressure.
Diaspora wants a say in Haiti’s future
Still reeling under the shock of Tuesday’s earthquake, and often without news of their families Haitians in Switzerland are already looking to the future.
Private bankers urge Swiss to shape up on tax
Some of Switzerland’s most influential bankers have called for a more coherent response to the recent crescendo of global criticism concerning tax evasion.
Stress hormone researcher wins Latsis Prize
Mirjam Christ-Crain - the Basel medical professor who received the prestigious Latsis Prize for 2009 in Bern on Thursday - knows a lot about the effects of stress.
Swiss citizenship for Chile's Frei criticised
Swiss authorities are facing questions about granting citizenship to Eduardo Frei, a former Chilean president and candidate in the country's national elections.
Swiss send rescuers to Haiti as outlook worsens
An international relief effort for Haiti gathered momentum on Wednesday as bodies piled up in streets and the country’s politicians warned of thousands of deaths.
Earthquake guts already battered Haiti
Aid groups and governments are scrambling to send disaster relief to Haiti, the desperately poor Caribbean nation devastated by a major earthquake on Tuesday.
Small shareholders reject Novartis-Alcon deal
The proposed total takeover of Alcon by Novartis has been thrown into doubt by a rebellion of disgruntled minority shareholders of the eye care company.
Haiti relief effort underway
An international relief effort for Haiti, devastated by a major earthquake on Tuesday, has gotten underway. Thousands are feared dead.
Swiss cantons catch the tax “fever”
Switzerland has decided to follow France and Italy in pardoning tax cheats, with some cantons going further than the government in trying to recuperate money.
Wood chips replace grit and salt on icy roads
As pedestrians all over the northern hemisphere slip and slide over icy pavements this winter, an innovative Swiss manufacturer is hoping to come to their rescue.
Skating champion vows to "finish the job"
Swiss figure skating champion Stéphane Lambiel says an Olympic gold in Vancouver next month is within reach.
Unlawful UBS data deal adds to legal headache
A Swiss court ruling against the handover of UBS bank client details to the United States threatens to add to the problems of already harassed lawyers.
Swiss-EU bilateral relations to be tested
A wholesale change at the top of the European Commission and the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty present a new set of challenges for Swiss-European relations.
Skiing goes ahead as usual despite deaths
The death of seven skiers in an avalanche on January 3 is unlikely to lead to sanctions or measures to keep people from entering potential danger zones in mountainous areas.
Mountain doctors face steep slope
The job of mountain doctor may conjure up an image of nature, fresh air and free time but in reality it is hard work and very time intensive.
No Swiss rethink on ending aid to North Korea
Switzerland is standing by a decision to stop development aid to North Korea, which has focused on improving food security in the internationally isolated country.
Smoking ban linked to drop in heart attacks
A ban on smoking in restaurants and bars in eastern Switzerland could have led to fewer heart attacks since its introduction, according to a recent medical study.
Finma chief defends UBS data transfer to US
The president of the Swiss Financial and Market Supervisory Authority (Finma) has defended the body’s decision to hand over UBS data to the United States.
Geneva airport strike set to continue
Ground staff striking at Geneva International Airport have voted to continue their week-long protest action over salary and work conditions.
Court rules UBS data transfer to US illegal
A Swiss court has ruled that the handing over of confidential UBS bank details to United States investigators by the Swiss authorities last year was illegal.
Jobless rise prompts fears but no panic
Switzerland has more to fear from unemployment in its export markets than the 12-year high jobless rate inside its own borders, according to one economist.
Swiss Post arrives at crossroads in digital age
A series of resignations at the top of Swiss Post has revealed uncertainty at its highest levels over the future of the postal service and its plans to expand abroad.
China warns Swiss over asylum cases
Switzerland’s ties with China could be undermined if Bern decides to give refuge to two ethnic Uighurs who have been held in Guantánamo for eight years.
“Party over” for optimistic retailers
Rising unemployment, stagnant wages and falling immigration are forecast to negatively impact retail prospects this year, in defiance of rosy industry expectations.
Swiss seek to improve biodiversity reputation
Switzerland is hoping to clear its tarnished environmental protection record by rolling out public awareness events to mark the 2010 Year of Biodiversity.
Rethinking the way we drive now
A debate has been launched about how Switzerland can maintain and expand its road network since the current financing system will soon run out of steam.
Geothermal sector faces heat of public scrutiny
Switzerland’s fledgling geothermal power industry needs to win back sceptics following the highly publicised failure of a project in Basel, experts have warned.
“Stress marker” benefits stroke patients
Measuring a stress hormone in the brain can help doctors judge the severity of a stroke and improve treatment, according to Swiss researchers.
Europe seeks to offload flu vaccines
Western European countries, including Switzerland, are queuing up to shift surplus stocks of the H1N1 flu vaccine after low public demand.
Avalanche tragedy strikes rescuers hard
The avalanche tragedy that killed seven people in the Bernese Oberland on Sunday is a harsh reminder that rescuers put their lives at risk to save others.
Tracking scammers, hackers and phishers
Internet crime – from paedophilia to data theft – is becoming increasingly prevalent and ingenious, experts tell swissinfo.ch.
Off-pisters face fines for causing avalanches
Avalanches onto marked ski runs in canton Valais, triggered by off-piste skiers, have provoked a debate about liability and sanctions for those who flout warnings.
US judge won’t delay prison for UBS informant
A federal judge has refused to postpone prison or consider a lighter sentence for a former UBS banker-turned-whistleblower.
Double avalanche claims several lives
At least four people died and five were injured in avalanches on Sunday in the Bernese Alps – one of the worst accidents of its kind in recent years.
Airport body scanners divide Swiss
A debate has been sparked in Switzerland over installing body scanners in airports after a terrorist attempt prompted the Netherlands to roll out the machines.
Bringing ET out of the realm of sci-fi
Is there life beyond Earth? A few years ago most scientists would have said ‘no’ but opinions are changing as our understanding of the universe grows.
All of Switzerland’s a stage in 2010
Concert goers are already rubbing their hands and getting out their diaries – and credit cards – for big-name artists coming to Switzerland next year.
“Switzerland needs no EU defender”
Spain assumed the presidency of the European Union on January 1 and has repeatedly expressed its willingness to strengthen ties between Brussels and Bern.
All systems go for nationwide abduction alert
A Swiss nationwide alert system for child abductions, such as exists in neighbouring France, comes into effect on January 1.
New president eyes challenges ahead
Economics Minister Doris Leuthard is embarking on her year as Swiss president at a time of economic crisis, with plenty of outstanding issues to tackle.
Puck rolls in Davos’ favour despite loss
Swiss hockey club and host of the Spengler Cup, HC Davos, have lost in the tournament final but won where it really counts, on the financial scorecard.
Celebrities flock to Swiss solitude
The country’s image abroad might have been as battered as a schnitzel in 2009, but Switzerland is still the glitziest place to see in – and be seen in – the New Year.
A milestone year ends for banking secrecy
Swiss banking secrecy has been enshrined in law for 75 years but 2009 marked a turning point in the practice as it came under massive international pressure.
Swiss athletes serve up mixed success
After an Olympic 2008 – which included the Swiss-hosted Euro football tournament – 2009 was always going to be quiet, but that didn’t mean sporting cold turkey.
Swiss happy to see end of EU annus horribilis
Swiss diplomats would describe 2009 as “eventful”. Rarely has Switzerland come in for so much criticism and pressure from the European Union (EU).
Snowmaking comes in from the cold
Snow means life and livelihood to Beat Allenbach from Adelboden in the Bernese Alps. His winter begins when summer ends and there’s much to do.
Swiss help put Palestinian produce on the table
Palestinians returning from a shopping trip are more likely to be carrying home a basket full of Israeli produce than local goods.
Darwin, the Big Bang and the moon
The Swiss scientific year ended with a bang after the Cern atom smasher on the Swiss-French border hit protons together for the first time – after months of delay.
Detained Swiss in Libya hampered by legal fog
The upcoming trial of two Swiss men held in Libya for more than 75 weeks will offer clues as to whether Tripoli is exacting revenge or just upholding its laws.
Swiss plot escape from economic doldrums
As Switzerland reflects on a bruising 12 months for its economy, the wheels are already in motion to chart a course to better times starting in 2010.
Winter tourists urged to respect wildlife
The increasing popularity of such winter sports as free-ride snowboarding or snowshoe walking is threatening the survival of wild animals in mountain regions.
Swiss digest reputational damage
World renowned as a country of peace, neutrality and conflict resolution, Switzerland has had to face up to another year of damaging international headlines.
“Lothar has made the forests more stable”
Hurricane Lothar swept across western and central Europe in 1999 with devastating results, but ten years on a Swiss forester says it also had positive effects.
Bringing medical aid to Bethlehem’s babies
Every year since 1963 the Catholic churches in Switzerland have donated the offerings taken at Midnight Mass to support the Caritas Baby Hospital in Bethlehem.
Federer remains the man to beat
It was yet another rollercoaster year for Roger Federer – and his fans. A leading tennis commentator tells swissinfo.ch to expect more of the same in 2010.
Christians flock to churches in the Arab world
Two million Roman Catholics live in the Arabian peninsula, and at Christmas the churches are full to bursting.
Providing warmth and company for the homeless
Many large Swiss cities provide overnight shelters for the homeless, which offer not only a warm bed, but also company – particularly precious at Christmas time.
French showdown looms over stolen bank data
A dispute between Switzerland and France over stolen bank data and tax evasion is threatening to undermine diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Who is cashing in on cashmere?
Swiss consumers are buying more and more clothes made out of cashmere because prices have steadily fallen, but increasingly they are asking just how it is produced.
Wauwil is Switzerland's first “child friendly” town
As a rule, children in Switzerland have it good. And in Wauwil life is especially congenial. Unicef recently named it a child friendly town – a Swiss first.
Swiss Muslims put their problems on the table
The vote to ban the construction of minarets in Switzerland has been a wake-up call to both the government and Swiss Muslims, round table talks have shown.
Polanski case takes nod toward no jail time
Judges in the United States have hinted that film director Roman Polanski, who is awaiting extradition from Switzerland, may not have to serve time in jail after all.
Christmas is bittersweet for chocolatier in US
Americans are expected to spend less this holiday, and the Swiss chocolatier Teuscher, which offers luxury confectionaries to the US market, is feeling the pinch.
Earth-shaking energy project cleared in court
The head of a geothermal energy project in Basel which triggered several earth tremors three years ago has been acquitted of causing wilful criminal damage.
Vaccines enjoy renaissance in pharma industry
The swine flu pandemic forced pharma groups to develop vaccines as quickly as possible but the market for such disease-resistant products has been booming for years.
Housing market remains on solid foundations
The Swiss residential real estate sector is expected to dip slightly but remain stable next year, confirming its status as a pillar of strength for the economy.
“Chaotic drama” of Copenhagen roundly panned
Switzerland’s political parties, media and environmental groups have reacted to the outcome of the United Nations climate conference with incredulity and regret.
Politicians accused of doublespeak on languages
Swiss politicians fail to recognise the value of multilingualism when the languages spoken are not the national tongues or English.
Leuenberger says Copenhagen outcome "insufficient"
Environment Minister Moritz Leuenberger on Saturday had some kind words for the United Nations climate conference but criticised the result as “insufficient”.
Swiss banks should step up Islamic wealth drive
Switzerland faces a bigger threat from the developing private banking system in the Middle East than reaction to the minaret ban, according to one finance expert.
Leaving UN terror blacklists gets easier
Switzerland and other countries have convinced the United Nations Security Council to simplify the delisting procedure for people affected by anti-terror sanctions.
Swiss pushes issue of climate refugees
Any result in Copenhagen should include the issue of people forced to leave their homes by climate change, Walter Kälin tells swissinfo.ch.
Minaret vote was a “lesson in civic spirit”
Two weeks after voters approved a ban on minaret construction, the rightwing Swiss People’s Party deputy Oskar Freysinger gives his reading of events.
Merz and the stolen tax data – saint or sinner?
Swiss and French newspapers have mixed feelings following Finance Minister Hans-Rudolf Merz’s announcement that Switzerland would suspend a tax accord with France.
First in vivo baby sees light of day
Swiss researchers have announced the first-ever birth of a baby via assisted in vivo fertilisation followed by full development inside the mother’s womb.
Swiss to accept one Guantánamo detainee
The Swiss government has said it will take one detainee from the United States detention facility at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba.
Linguists unite against English invasion
Largely unnoticed by English speakers, our fellow Europeans are sullenly suffering the colonisation of their native languages by Anglo-American terms.
Feeling the heat, and the cold, at Copenhagen
While “rather tense” negotiations continue inside the conference hall, many NGOs find themselves frozen out of the Copenhagen climate debate.
Former UBS chiefs to face no charges
Public prosecutors have averted the prospect of another drawn out and expensive Swiss corporate trial by dropping a criminal probe into former UBS bank executives.
Tax amnesty to hit southern canton of Ticino
A successful Italian tax amnesty ends on Tuesday, with Switzerland left counting the cost to its financial centre.
“National Muslim body is not a priority”
Better ties between Muslims and the Swiss population should be a priority, and not the creation of a national Muslim umbrella organisation, says an Islamic expert.
Safety does not worry low-key Swiss politicians
Italian Premier Silvio Berlusconi probably didn't expect to end up in hospital on Sunday. But should his security detail have anticipated the attack on his person?
Push for animal rights lawyer ruffles feathers
Voters should reject an initiative to give animals a constitutional right to be defended by lawyers, the government said on Monday.
Cool heads prevail on the ski slopes
The wearing of ski helmets will not become mandatory in Switzerland even though statistics show around 17,000 people suffer head injuries on the slopes each winter.
Brain scans could detect future criminals
Someone makes you a promise that seems too good to be true: they sound persuasive – but if only you could look inside their brain, you would know whether to trust them.
Klitschko retains heavyweight title on points
Heavyweight boxer Vitali Klitschko has successfully defended his WBC title at the PostFinance Arena in Bern against previously unbeaten Kevin Johnson.
Young gamers at risk from addiction
As Christmas approaches, electronic game and console manufacturers are trying to persuade children and their parents to buy steeply discounted products to put under the tree.
Swiss reflect on Schengen progress one year on
On December 12, 2008 Switzerland officially opened its borders to citizens of the Schengen area and broke its physical isolation from its European neighbours.
“Tripoli Two” reveal faces
Rachid Hamdani and Max Göldi, the two Swiss businessmen detained in Libya since July 2008, have released a photo to thank people in Switzerland for their support.
Switzerland showcases science globally
Swiss science and technology is continuing to push back global boundaries with an ongoing programme to promote collaboration projects worldwide.
Will church bells toll for the climate?
The bells of world’s churches are set to toll on Sunday afternoon in a bid to raise awareness about climate change but in Switzerland, many will stay silent.
Controversial deportation decision postponed
Parliament has delayed taking a decision on a rightwing proposal to automatically deport foreigners convicted of serious crimes.
Shelters for battered men open their doors
By the end of this week, German-speaking Switzerland will have its first two homes for battered men, highlighting a social problem often mired in taboo.
“Something is culturally wrong in Switzerland”
Switzerland’s image as a country of human rights has been rocked by the ban on the construction of minarets, according to a Swiss member of the Council of Europe.
Swiss industrialist faces trial over asbestos
A major trial opens in Italy on Thursday in which a Swiss industrialist is accused of co-responsibility for the deaths of hundreds of workers.
Parliamentarian still finds inspiration at 78
He stands out among the 246 parliamentarians in more than one way – Jacques Neirynck who sits in the House of Representatives, musing about the driving forces of politics.
Hedge funds value “culture” over tax breaks
Switzerland’s hopes of luring hedge funds over from London depend more on creating the right business culture than tax incentives, according to an industry expert.
Iraqi rights minister sees more violence ahead
As Baghdad suffered its deadliest bombings since October, Iraq’s human rights minister said violence was likely to intensify ahead of general elections on March 7.
Poor need more than hot air from Copenhagen
In Bangladesh, experts and ordinary people alike say the country ought to anticipate little from the United Nations climate conference currently underway in Denmark.
Christmas shoppers optimistic despite clouds
Consumers are expected to be out in force on the high streets during the festive season despite worries about jobs and the scale of increasing costs next year.
Arab press say Swiss neutrality is failing
Following Switzerland’s decision to ban new minarets, reaction in the Arab media has ranged from calls for sanctions to the need for self-critical reflection.
Red-hot “Iceman” shines with skiing hat-trick
Swiss skier Carlo Janka has become the talk of the ski world after winning three consecutive alpine men's World Cup ski races in three days in different disciplines.
Switzerland has its word to say in Copenhagen
Swiss Environment Minister Moritz Leuenberger says he is travelling with cautious optimism to the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Denmark.
Fragmented cleantech sector "needs shake-up"
Switzerland's developing cleantech industry needs to be better organised and start-ups should be more focused to keep pace with global competitors, experts agree.
Cabinet "avoided necessary debate" over Islam
The proposal for a minaret ban was treated too hastily by the Swiss authorities, who have to take part of the blame for the result of a nationwide vote says a political commentator.
Swiss skiers on a roll
Two times two: Swiss skiers have taken the first two podium places in two World Cup disciplines in two days.
"Mother" wines and dines “daughter city” delegation
The Swiss capital has helped its official daughter city in the United States, New Bern, launch its tricentennial celebrations.
Poverty touches old and young in Switzerland
It can take as little as a broken pair of glasses to cause financial hardship for the 45,000 elderly people living on the poverty line in Switzerland.
Director Polanski begins "chalet arrest"
Blue skies, snow-capped mountains and hoards of journalists welcomed film director Roman Polanski to his luxury Gstaad home on his first day of house arrest.
Inflation threat divides opinion
The threat of galloping inflation becoming the next evil to afflict the Swiss – and global – economy has forecasters gazing into different crystal balls.
American Muslims fear for European counterparts
Switzerland’s decision to ban minarets has sparked outrage by Muslim-Americans who have called the vote “xenophobic and bigoted”.
"Switzerland should not fear backlash over ban"
Switzerland should not be worried about a violent backlash by the Arab-Muslim world over the vote to ban minarets, says Swiss Islamic scholar Tariq Ramadan.
End of the road for cheap mobility?
Switzerland has too much traffic in too little space, but the transport ministry’s latest proposals to face up to the challenge mean a real change of direction.
Private banks must adapt to survive
The changing landscape of global wealth management will force Swiss private banks to change the way they operate in order to compete, experts agree.
WTO warns time running out for Doha deal
Trade ministers appear unable to bridge a gap between emerging and developed nations that could break the eight-year stalemate in the Doha round of trade talks.
Legal questions raised following minaret vote
After Switzerland's vote to ban the construction of minarets, a plan to build such a tower in the town of Langenthal could provoke an international conflict.
Swiss businessmen in Libya given 16 months
A Libyan court has sentenced two Swiss businessmen to 16 months in prison for visa irregularities and tax evasion, it has been confirmed by the Swiss government.
Swiss women fill high political office in 2010
Next year the three highest political positions in Switzerland will be held by women, although women only got the vote in federal elections in 1971.
Defending popular rights – by limiting them?
Switzerland's system of direct democracy has won it praise in the past, but a vote to ban minarets has led many to question the much vaunted ideal.
Living with HIV as a constant companion
At 33.4 million, there are more people living with HIV than ever before, mainly because antiretroviral therapy is prolonging lives.
Rightwing rejects parallel Muslim society
The rightwing Swiss People's Party is planning further steps against the spread of Islam in Switzerland following voters' approval of a ban on new minarets.
Swiss minaret ban sends ripples worldwide
Swiss voters' decision to ban the construction of minarets has drawn worldwide criticism, with the United Nations and Council of Europe expressing outright concern.
"Swiss voters were misled"
Following Sunday's vote to ban minaret construction in Switzerland, a prominent Swiss Muslim talks to swissinfo.ch about an "aggressive and misleading" campaign.
World's press dissect Swiss minaret ban
The Swiss vote to ban minarets reflects the fears of many Europeans but has tarnished the country's reputation, many international commentators believe.
The minaret ban hits the Swiss headlines
Sunday's clear decision by Swiss voters to ban further construction of minarets in the country has sent shockwaves around Switzerland and elsewhere.
Government seeks to limit impact of minaret ban
The government says voters' approval of a ban on new minarets reflects fears among the Swiss population of Islamic fundamentalism.
International Muslim concern at minaret vote
Reaction to the Swiss anti-minaret vote in the wider Islamic community has reflected shock, sadness and concern, but also a determination to try to build bridges.
Minaret result seen as "turning point"
Swiss voters' clear decision on Sunday to ban the construction of minarets has generated a wide range of emotions, from stunned joy to rueful concern.
Minaret ban approved by 57 per cent of voters
To the great surprise of pollsters and the regret of the government, the Swiss on Sunday said yes to a ban on the construction of minarets.
Federer denied London tennis finals
Roger Federer has failed to qualify for Sunday's final of the World Tour Finals in London after losing to Nikolay Davydenko 6-2, 4-6, 7-5.
Teenagers raise their voices over climate
As world leaders gear up for key climate talks in Copenhagen, those who are will bear the consequences of global warming - children - are also discussing the issue.
A Swiss apple a day keeps wrinkles at bay
A rare Swiss apple is being hailed in the cosmetic and fashion world as an exciting anti-ageing breakthrough – even Michelle Obama is rumoured to be a fan.
