Swiss Stories

Slalom

A clear run for Swiss slalom

Society
After years on the sidelines, the slalom is finally reclaiming the spotlight in Swiss competitive skiing – thanks largely to the success of two rising stars, Ramon Zenhäusern and Daniel Yule. A profile of two extraordinary champions making their mark both on and off the piste.

by Bertrand Monnard

Some six million tonnes of goods are transhipped annually at the Port of Switzerland alone. © Patrik Walde

Full speed ahead thanks to Swiss batteries

Science & Education
ll aboard Ellen, the world's largest fully electric-powered ferry. As it makes its regular crossing, there is none of the noise or the fumes and smoke of a diesel engine. Without a single drop of heavy fuel oil, Ellen has paved the way for further advances in electric maritime mobility. The electrification of shipping is gaining ground, making an important contribution to emissions-free transport. Among the global leaders in innovative e-transport solutions are Swiss companies such as Leclanché.
Cargo sous terrain

Cargo sous terrain: the project taking Swiss innovation to a whole new level

Environment
Cargo sous terrain (CST) is a new, innovative, totally ecological, state-of-the-art project. As the idea is so new, it also brings with it uncertainties and doubts about its implementation. However, this did not dissuade the Federal Council: in February 2020 it issued the legal basis for the project, which aims to take freight transport underground.
Frauenstreik

Women's strikes in Switzerland: from one 14 June to another

Society
It is 14 June 2019, and a purple wave is sweeping the streets of Switzerland's largest cities. In fact, it's the second time that Swiss streets have been bathed in purple, the colour of the women’s movement. The first time was 28 years ago, in 1991. A vast number of Swiss women are demonstrating for their rights, specifically – equality. Strikes are relatively rare in Switzerland, as the right to strike is subject to precise conditions listed under Article 28 of Switzerland's constitution. Before it comes to a strike, labour conflicts are often resolved through mediation between the unions and employers. Why are women's strikes an exception in the history of Swiss labour disputes? We look back at two historic days of mobilisation in a country seen as a model of social harmony.
The saffron flower is violet. It blossoms in the month of September in the fields of Upper Valais.

The red gold of Upper Valais

Society
Saffron has been cultivated in Mund, in Upper-Valais, since the 14th century. It is the only village in Switzerland where the spice still grows naturally. We examine a family tradition that has endured to this day.

by Lea Huszno

©️ Swiss Armed Forces Digital Media Centre, Nadine Strub

Haute cuisine in camouflage trousers: the Swiss Armed Forces culinary team

Society
The Swiss Armed Forces culinary team is repeatedly voted one of the best in its field, often far outdoing non-military culinary teams in international contests. How can that be? The answer lies in the militia system that has shaped Switzerland for centuries.

by Michael Senn

Ambulance jet Bombardier Challenger 650

Rega: the Swiss saviour

History
Rega, also known as Swiss Air-Rescue, carries out helicopter and ambulance jet missions in Switzerland and abroad for those in need. The non-profit foundation celebrated its 70th anniversary this year and is supported by the financial contributions of more than 3.6 million patrons.

by Olivia Chang