Swiss

Swiss refers to anything related to Switzerland, a landlocked country in Central Europe, or to its people as a demonym. The Swiss Confederation is the country’s official name in English. The term encompasses citizens and residents, as well as national culture, institutions, and products associated with Switzerland. The country has four official languages, reflecting its regional diversity: German, French, Italian, and Romansh.

Geography and government: Switzerland borders Germany, France, Italy, Austria, and Liechtenstein. It is a federal republic composed of 26 cantons, with a long-standing tradition of direct democracy, including referendums and popular initiatives. The federal government handles national affairs such as defense, foreign policy, and customs, while cantons retain substantial autonomy.

Demographics and society: The population is multilingual and culturally diverse. Most residents speak one of the official languages, and many are fluent in additional languages. Education emphasizes both general and vocational routes. Regional identities are strong within the cantons, yet shared institutions foster national cohesion.

Economy and neutrality: Switzerland has a highly developed, high-income economy with strengths in finance, pharmaceuticals, machinery, and precision manufacturing. The Swiss franc is the currency. The country is known for its policy of neutrality in international affairs and hosts many international organizations in Geneva and other cities.

Culture and notable products: Swiss culture includes world-renowned watchmaking, chocolate, and cheese; alpine tourism; and a reputation for quality and reliability in design and engineering.