Sicherheit 2010 - Center for Security Studies (CSS) - ETH Zürich

Summary of the survey “Security 2010”
the reforms of Armed Forces 95 and Armed Forces XXI, a majority supported a
downsizing of the armed forces. Since 2005, only a minority favours a reduction
of personnel of the armed forces.
Social relevance of the armed forces: In the 1980s, the perceived social relevance
of the military diminished – a trend that has not continued. When asked whether
the armed forces play a major role, whether they are a necessary evil or even an
institution in need of abolishing, 46% (+1%) opt for the “necessary evil”. Almost
as many believe that the military plays a major role in Switzerland, and regard it as
positive (40%, −1%). 13% (±0%) of respondents think that the armed forces should
be abolished.
Conscription as a value: Conscription is not only based on military considerations
but also on the normative idea that national defence is the task of all citizens.
62% of the surveyed Swiss citizens support this belief. 34% view national defence
as necessary but do not want to be involved in it personally.
Recommendation of a military career: Roughly six out of ten respondents, 9%
more than in the last survey on this matter in 2001, would give a friend a positive
recommendation when asked whether he should pursue a career as a NCO or
officer after basic military training. 1 Since the creation of the Armed Forces XXI,
the social prestige of a military career seems to have increased again. While in
previous surveys a large part of the population could not respond to this question
(Don’t know / no answer), this number is much lower in 2010.
Militia cadre: Surprisingly, the prestige of military cadre positions has not continuously
increased but significantly risen compared to 2005 when the Swiss’ attitude
towards military cadre training was last surveyed. 70% (+7% compared to 2005)
believe that “military leadership experience leads to advantages in one’s civilian
professional career”. The number of people regarding continued education in the
military as a disadvantage for professional life has remained stable at roughly 40%
since 1998 (2010: 41%). A majority considers a military promotion as honourable
(63%; a plus of 9% compared to 2005). In 2010, this number is just as high as it
was in 1983.
88% of the respondents “very much” or “rather” agree with the statement that
“the Swiss Armed Forces can only function if competent persons volunteer for a
1 The question was slightly adapted in 2010 and no distinction is made anymore between NCO and officer.
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