Switzerland Fortifies Defences: Government Backs VAT Hike and Compulsory Civil Service

The Swiss government is moving to significantly bolster national security, proposing a 0.5% VAT hike to fund increased military spending and backing a plan to merge civil defence and civilian service, making security-related service compulsory for all male conscripts. This two-pronged approach addresses both financial needs and personnel shortages in the armed forces and disaster response units.