‘Upward mobility’ among Switzerland’s population is ‘exceptional’ by international standards; government to issue new biometric identity cards; and more news in our Tuesday roundup.
Social mobility remains ‘exceptional’ in Switzerland
Opportunities for upward mobility — which is akin to climbing to a higher career or income level — have remained intact in Switzerland since the 1980s, according to a study carried out by the Swiss Institute for Economic Policy (IWP).
Concretely, IWP’s researchers have analysed the evolution of chances of social advancement in Switzerland.
They found that social mobility is “exceptionally high” in Switzerland by international standards,
This suggests a close link between income distribution and equality of opportunity, they reported.
Switzerland to issue a new biometric identity card
The federal police (Fedpol) is currently working with cantonal and federal authorities to develop the first biometric identity card for Swiss citizens.
This card will be equipped with a chip containing biometric data, just like the current Swiss biometric passport, “thus providing even more effective protection against misuse,” the government said in a press release on Monday, adding that “its introduction is likely planned for the end of 2026.”
Since 2021, the European Union has required its members to issue only biometric identity cards.
This requirement is also included in the latest package of agreements between Bern and Brussels.
“The introduction of this new card is therefore part of this broader framework, guaranteeing free movement for Swiss citizens within the EU,” the Federal Council said.
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Coop to ban large purchases from self-service checkouts
To limit waiting times, the supermarket chain will not allow customers with full carts to access self-checkouts.
However, people who use the Passabene system — which scans their shopping as they go — will be able to continue using self-service checkouts, regardless of the volume of their purchases.
According to Coop, this measure aims to avoid ‘traffic jams’ that occur when customers attempt to scan an entire shopping cart item by item, especially during peak hours.
They will be directed to the traditional checkouts instead.
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Yes, most Swiss trains are air-conditioned
With the extremely high temperatures across Switzerland, the last thing any commuter wants is to sit in an overheated train.
But that is not likely to happen.
According to the national rail company SBB, 98 percent of Swiss trains “are equipped with modern air conditioning.”
The system is not infallible, however: out of the 9,100 air conditioning units in service, only about 20 malfunction per day.
Many factors influence air conditioning on trains: the outside temperature, the number of passengers, and even the train’s speed play a significant role, the company said.
Even so, don’r expect an icy blast of air.
That’s because on hot days, the air on board trains is up to 8C cooler than the outside temperature, so if it is 30C outside, it will be 22C inside.
If you have any questions about life in Switzerland, ideas for articles or news tips for The Local, please get in touch with us at news@thelocal.ch
