studying abroad

Switzerland
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The constitution also confers
sovereignty - that is, supreme
political power - on the
population, which elects
a parliament. The Swiss
parliament, in turn, elects the
members of the government,
called a Federal Council. The
country also has a legislative
body, the Federal Assembly,
which is composed of two equal
The economy is
classified as one of
the most capitalist
in the world
chambers. The Council of States,
with 46 members representing
the cantons, and the National
Council, with 200 members
allocated according to the strength
of the party.
There are currently four main
political parties: the Swiss People’s
Party, the Radicals, the Social
Democrats and the Christian
Democrats.
For much of the twentieth
century Switzerland has been the
wealthiest country in Europe.
Swiss residents enjoy low tax
rates, in comparison to the
rest of Europe, with similarly
high standards of living. Yet,
unlike many European states,
residents are required to have
insurance against unemployment,
occupational accidents and
occupational illness.
A 2005 survey by the Swiss
Federal Statistical Office
found that the average
Swiss spent just over a
third of their household
budget on taxes and
insurance. Nevertheless, the
strong economic performance of
Switzerland could make studying
there rewarding experience. The
country’s economy is classified as
one of the most capitalist in the
world and it boasts high levels of
stability and modernization.
The main industries are:
• Pharmaceuticals
• Banking and Insurance
• Watch production
•Tourism
• Mechanical and Electrical
Engineering
The country has high levels of
freedoms in all areas of life, and in
1981 an equality law was passed
to ensure equal rights between
men and women. The country is
a collage of various languages,
religious leanings and ethnic
differences. This adds to the rich
cultural tapestry that makes the
country unique.
Switzerland’s currency is the Swiss
franc (CHF). The Euro is also
becoming increasingly accepted.
However, transactions are mostly
done in Swiss francs.
more info:
www.swissworld.org
Swiss
franc
(CHF)