Switzerland Job Search

 

Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian and Romansch. Be aware of the traditional antipathy between the country's German and French speakers. English is a common language, especially in the international business sector.

Switzerland Basic Data

Background: Switzerland's independence and neutrality have long been honored by the major European powers, and Switzerland was not involved in either of the two World Wars. The political and economic integration of Europe over the past half century, as well as Switzerland's role in many UN and international organizations, has strengthened Switzerland's ties with its neighbors. However, the country did not officially become a UN member until 2002. Switzerland remains active in many UN and international organizations, but retains a strong commitment to neutrality.

Capital: Bern

Climate: temperate, but varies with altitude; cold, cloudy, rainy/snowy winters; cool to warm, cloudy, humid summers with occasional showers

Ethnic groups: German 65%, French 18%, Italian 10%, Romansch 1%, other 6%

Languages: German (official) 63.7%, French (official) 19.2%, Italian (official) 7.6%, Romansch (official) 0.6%, other 8.9%

Economy - overview: Switzerland is a prosperous and stable modern market economy with low unemployment, a highly skilled labor force, and a per capita GDP larger than that of the big western European economies. The Swiss in recent years have brought their economic practices largely into conformity with the EU's to enhance their international competitiveness. Switzerland remains a safe haven for investors, because it has maintained a degree of bank secrecy and has kept up the franc's long-term external value. Reflecting the anemic economic conditions of Europe, GDP growth dropped in 2001 to about 0.8%, to 0.2% in 2002, and to -0.3% in 2003.

Labor force - by occupation: services 69.1%, industry 26.3%, agriculture 4.6% (1998)

Unemployment rate: 1.9% (2002 est.)

Natural resources: hydropower potential, timber, salt

Industries: machinery, chemicals, watches, textiles, precision instruments

Currency: Swiss franc (CHF)

Exchange rates: Swiss francs per US dollar - 1.56 (2002), 1.69 (2001), 1.69 (2000), 1.5 (1999), 1.45 (1998)

Internet country code: .ch

Switzerland Job Search Info

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