switzerland

Switzerland, officially the Swiss Confederation, is a landlocked country in Central Europe. It is bordered by Germany to the north, France to the west, Italy to the south, and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east. The Alps dominate southern Switzerland; the Jura runs along the western edge, and a central plateau hosts most of the population and economic activity.

Switzerland has four official languages—German, French, Italian, and Romansh—reflecting its cultural diversity. The population is around 8.7 million. The capital is Bern; the largest city is Zurich, with major centers including Geneva, Basel, Lausanne, and Bern.

Switzerland has a federal parliamentary system with a seven-member Federal Council serving as the collective head of government and state. The country is known for its direct democracy, with regular referendums and popular initiatives. It is not a member of the European Union, but participates in the Schengen Area and the Dublin Regulation and is a member of the EFTA and various international organizations.

Economically, Switzerland is highly developed and prosperous, with strengths in services, finance, pharmaceuticals, and precision manufacturing such as watches and machinery. It has a high standard of living and a strong financial sector. Public transport is well developed, and environmental policy emphasizes sustainability and hydroelectric power.

Historically, the Swiss Confederation traces its roots to alliances in the late 13th century and evolved into a federal state in 1848. Switzerland has pursued a policy of military and political neutrality for centuries.