Zurich votes to free its streets of large cars; Switzerland is named the world’s ‘most resilient’ country in an international ranking; and more news in our Friday roundup.
Zurich wants to rid its streets if wide cars
Prompted by left-wing parties, the Zurich municipal council voted on Wednesday against large cars in the city, arguing that, aside from damaging the environment, these vehicles pose safety concerns, especially for people with disabilities as well as cyclists.
Dissuasive measures proposed by the elected officials includee fines for cars that are deemed too large and encroach on public space from private parking lots.
Switzerland is the world’s ‘most resilient’ country
An international study has recognised Switzerland as the most resilient country in the face of crises, thanks to its political stability, innovation, and governance.
This study, the Global Risk and Resilience Index published by Henley & Partners consultancy, assesses nations’ vulnerability to current geopolitical risks and their capacity to overcome major crises.
It reports that Switzerland ranks 1st, because it is “driven by exceptionally low risk and world-leading innovation, governance, and social metrics.”
Lidl plans to open over 100 new stores in Switzerland
The German discount retailer is planning to expand its presence in Switzerland from 190 to around 300 stores over the next seven to 10 years, creating 2,000 new jobs in the process.
Lidl’s goal, according to its management, is to continue to offer the lowest possible prices.
“We have promised our customers that we will always offer the cheapest basket of goods,” the company spokesperson said, adding that the discounter recently lowered its prices for meat, bread and pasta, among other foods.
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Swiss wages increased in 2025 – but only slightly
The average increase in actual wages was 1.2 percent, compared to 2.1 percent in 2024 and 2.5 percent in 2023.
By sector, construction saw the most significant increase, of 1.7 percent.
Next are financial and insurance activities (+1.6 percent), education (+1.5 percent), transportation and warehousing (+1.5%), as well as healthcare and social work (+1.2 percent).
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Ahead this weekend:
Saturday, November 1st: Religious holiday
The All Saints’ Day, which commemorates all Christian saints and martyrs, is a public holiday in all but 11 cantons: Aargau, Basel-Country, Basel-City, Bern, Geneva, Graubünden, Neuchâtel, Schaffhausen, Thurgau, Vaud, and Zurich.
READ ALSO: Where in Switzerland is November 1st a public holiday?
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