Swiss government tackles violence against women; Switzerland is Europe’s train travel champion; Flexibility to change health insurance coverage

News for 26 November

Switzerland is internationally known for its low crime rate, but when it comes to domestic violence, women in the country face a different situation.

Over the next few years, the Swiss government intends to take action against gender-based violence in three main areas. Interior Minister Elisabeth Baume-Schneider presented an interim report that shows the measures in the government’s action plan are on track. The federal government, cantons and municipalities have now identified three areas that require particular action. “Substantial progress is to be made in these areas by 2026,” said Baume-Schneider.

**********

People in Switzerland take the train more often and travel more kilometres per year than other Europeans, This is what emerges from a report published on Thursday by LITRA, the association for the promotion of public transport. The 22.3 billion passenger-kilometers (pk) traveled by Swiss commuters added up to an average of 2,466 pk in 2023.

Additionally, each resident of Switzerland travelled by train an average of 68 times. In both these categories, people in Switzerland exceed, by far, European averages.

**********

From January 1st, 2025, consumers will be able to change their insurance model whenever they want, rather than only once a year, in November, as is currently the case.

The Federal Council announced this change on Wednesday, explaining that the new system will allow insured persons “to benefit from greater flexibility.”

They will be able to opt during the year for another type of insurance — as long as they remain with the same provider.

“This change is particularly suitable for people whose financial means have changed and who are looking to reduce the burden of their premiums,” without waiting for the end of the year to do so.

However, it will still not possible to join another insurer during the year.