Europe

Switzerland

Asylum applications fall across Switzerland and Europe

Asylum applications across the EU, Norway and Switzerland fell sharply in the first half of 2026. Switzerland forms part of a wider European decline, with Afghans remaining the largest applicant group and France and Italy overtaking Germany in total applications.

SWI swissinfo.ch

European Union

Iceland’s EU vote puts Europe’s membership map back in focus

Switzerland is among the countries watching Iceland’s referendum on whether to resume European Union membership talks. A vote in favour could revive debate about which other European states might seek closer ties with the bloc, including implications for Switzerland’s own relationship with the EU.

The Local Switzerland

Transportation

Switzerland Expands International Rail Links with New Routes to Brussels and London

New developments aim to enhance Switzerland's cross-border train network. A test run for a direct Basel-Brussels route is planned, and a direct service connecting Swiss cities to London could become operational as early as 2030, promising improved connectivity with key European capitals.

The Local Switzerland · +1 more

Foreign Policy

As European rearmament accelerates, the long-held neutrality policies of both Switzerland and Ireland are under pressure. This article explores the heated domestic debates in both countries, comparing the different historical origins and modern challenges to their neutral stances in the face of new security concerns.

SWI swissinfo.ch

Politics

As European rearmament puts pressure on long-held policies, a comparison between Switzerland and Ireland reveals how two of Europe's remaining neutral countries are navigating new security challenges and heated internal political debates.

SWI swissinfo.ch

Transport

Although demand is strong and new routes are planned, the revival of Europe's night train network faces significant hurdles. The industry is hampered by ageing rolling stock, inconsistent funding, and infrastructure challenges, complicating the expansion of this climate-friendly travel alternative to and from Switzerland.

The Local Switzerland · +3 more

politics

Council of Europe Secretary General and former Swiss minister calls for action plan to strengthen democracy amid concerning trends across multiple nations.

SWI swissinfo.ch