Information about the people of Switzerland

Switzerland has a population of about 7.4 million. Foreigners account for around 20% of the resident population. The average age is increasing, as people live longer and have fewer children.

Lifestyles are changing. Family relations, work and education in Switzerland are adapting to new demands. Young Swiss follow the same trends as their contemporaries abroad, but many traditions remain.

General information

The demographic evolution of Switzerland is characterised by fewer births, an ageing population, fewer and fewer people of working age and more and more foreign residents.

Families

Many people live in rented accommodation, they start their family relatively late and often wait to get married until just before the birth of their first child.

Women

It is difficult to combine motherhood and work.

Young people

Information about youth cultures and trends, the rights and duties of young people, drug use, their role in society and attitudes to traditional values.

Education

Information about the complex school system, obligatory schooling, professional training, universities and colleges, challenges and international comparisons.

Recreation

The leisure industry benefits from the popularity of adventure and endurance sports. Safety is always a consideration. More traditional sports include hiking and a range of winter sports. Swiss sports personalities have been successful in a range of disciplines.