Today in Switzerland: Latest Updates on Monday's News
In a move that has sparked debates, primary schools in several German-speaking Swiss cantons are increasingly opting to teach English instead of French as a second language. This shift, while seen as progressive by some, is causing concern among experts and communities who believe it could undermine mutual understanding and integration among linguistic communities in Switzerland.
Traditionally, Swiss German schools have taught French to maintain bilingual competence with the French-speaking cantons, while French regions have taught German. However, a recent trend suggests that French is being gradually replaced by English in primary schools, with some cantons even postponing French instruction to secondary school or considering its removal altogether.
This change challenges a longstanding educational and cultural practice designed to promote national cohesion through multilingualism. By reducing emphasis on French, the historical linguistic bridge between the German- and French-speaking parts of Switzerland is eroding, which experts and communities fear could weaken the national unity based on shared multilingual competence.
Frederic Borloz, head of Vaud's Department of Education and Vocational Training, emphasized the necessity of learning another national language for maintaining national cohesion in Switzerland. He expressed concern that replacing French with English could potentially decrease linguistic integration between Switzerland’s main language groups, weakening the sense of national cohesion that multilingual education has traditionally supported.
Meanwhile, in other news, the Swiss National Bank (SNB) may not distribute its profits to cantons this year due to a weak dollar and continued volatility in the financial markets. In 2024, the SNB generated 80 billion francs in profit, much of which was distributed to local governments. However, this year, the bank is expected to be in the red in the first half, potentially refraining from any distribution.
In Zurich, the number of individuals admitted to sobering-up cells in 2021 was 773, the lowest since 2016. These cells, approved by Zurich voters, accommodate people who pose a danger to themselves or others while intoxicated. They were set up to relieve pressure on hospitals and police stations. Those admitted to these cells are required to pay between 450 and 600 francs for their stay.
As for the Swiss political system, it continues to be the value that people in Switzerland cherish most. In a survey, the Swiss political system, with its direct democracy, federalism, and army, received the highest approval from participants (57%). Neutrality, once considered an important ideal, is no longer as highly valued as it once was, with only 30% of Swiss participants rating it as an important quality.
Lastly, it's worth noting that the country's natural beauty is in third place among Swiss ideals, with the economic model, considered stable and reliable, coming in second place. The Swiss National Bank's economic model has been a key factor in the country's financial success, generating significant profits in recent years.
[1] Source: SwissInfo (https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/education-policy/swiss-german-schools-drop-french-language-instruction-in-favour-of-english/46991752)
Education and self-development discussions revolve around the implications of primary schools in Swiss cantons teaching English instead of French, potentially undermining mutual understanding and integration among linguistic communities, as mentioned in the 'SwissInfo' article. (SwissInfo link provided)
Simultaneously, politics remains a widely valued aspect of Swiss society, with the Swiss political system receiving the highest approval (57%) in a survey, according to the same article.
