The “Fifth Switzerland” and its strong Helvetic ties

Published on October 25, 2022

Swiss people 55 years or older have strong ties to Switzerland, even when living in another country. This is shown by a scientific survey on “transnational ageing” that helps to better understand this growing population.

The research team collected responses from over 43 countries around the world. With 10,000 questionnaires sent out worldwide, the survey attracted a great deal of interest and reached a record response rate with a total of 4,689 responses. As part of the research project, 5 couples and 25 individuals living today in Morocco and Spain shared their personal stories.

Who are the Swiss Abroad 55 years or older?
The “Fifth Switzerland” close to or at retirement age consists of people of several nationalities who regularly travel to other countries around the world. Most of these people have migrated at least once in their life. The population is diverse: around one-fifth are descendants of Swiss who have lived in the country of residence for several generations, have never lived in Switzerland, and who for the most part travel regularly to other countries.

Read the whole article in the latest "Swiss Review" and get to know the "Fifth Switzerland"!

Photo Livia Tomás

 

Other news

Article of swissinfo.ch: "Swiss Abroad give a clear ‘yes’ to a digital ID"

October 21, 2022
The Organisation of the Swiss Abroad SwissCommunity welcomes the new legal basis for a state-owned E-ID and other electronic credentials. This is because access to e-government services and e-democracy is of great importance, particularly for the Swiss Abroad. In its statement of 18 October 2022 (in German or French), the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad supports, among other things, the fact that

Meeting of the Council of the Swiss Abroad: A clear commitment to Swiss neutrality

October 28, 2022
At its online meeting on 5 November 2022, the Council of the Swiss Abroad spoke out clearly in favour of a responsible approach to Swiss neutrality - and made neutrality policy demands to the Federal Council. In addition, the "Parliament of the Fifth Switzerland" adopted a draft for a seven-point election manifesto for 2023 addressed to the political parties and actors.Learn more in German or Fren