Switzerland Report 2005 Essay -- essays research papers fc

SWITZERLAND Switzerland is an independent country that has been able to maintain its neutrality, making them honored by the major European powers. An interesting historical fact is that Switzerland was not involved in either of the two World Wars. Switzerland’s active role in many UN and international organizations has been a positive strategy strengthening ties with its neighbors, but also letting them retain a strong commitment to neutrality. However, Switzerland did not officially become a UN member until 2002. Switzerland is located in Central Europe, east of France and North of Italy. Bordering countries are Austria, France, Italy, Liechtenstein and Germany. Bern is the capital city with Zurich being the largest city. It is mostly mountains and rolling hills with large lakes in the valleys. Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries that I have had the opportunity to visit. The population taken in July of 2004 was 7,450,867. Their population growth rate is .54%. The total life expectancy is 80 years. The country’s nationality is Swiss. The ethnic groups that make up Switzerland are: Germans at 65%, French at 18%, Italians at 10%, Romansch at 1%, and all others at 6%. With the diverse ethnic groups the primary languages follow suit with German speaking at 64%, French speaking at 19%, Italian at 8%, Romansch at .6% and other at 9%. The primary religions are Roman Catholic at 46%, Protestant at 40%, other religions equaling 5%, and an estimated 8.9% are non-religious. Switzerland is known as the Swiss Confederation, with a Federal Republic type of government. The federal state is made up of 26 cantons. Of which 20 are â€Å"full† cantons and six â€Å"half† cantons for the purpose of representation in the Federal legislature. Switzerland’s government is somewhat similar to that of the United States, in that they have a constitution that provides for separation of the three branches of government. Switzerland’s Federal institutions are: The Federal Assembly – a bicameral legislature (The Legislative Branch). The Federal Assembly is the primary seat of power. It has two houses the Council of State and the National Council. These two houses have equal power in all respects, including the right to introduce legislation. The Federal Council – a collegial executive of seven members (The Executive Branch). The Federal Assembly individually elects the seven Fe... ...y at 32.3%, France at 10.8%, Italy at 10.7%, US at 5.5%, Netherlands at 5%, Austria at 4.2% and U.K. at 4.1%. The main industry is services accounting for 69.1%, then industry at 26.3%, and agriculture at 4.6%. Switzerland’s energy or electricity production is 68.68 billion kilowatts, 110/220V and 50H. Switzerland is a member of the UN, The World Trade Organization, the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. Switzerland maintains diplomatic relations with almost all countries and historically has served as a neutral intermediary and host to major international treaty conferences. Switzerland’s ability to maintain good relationships with so many countries and its power to stay neutral, along with its economy being so advanced and prosperous makes it a prime market for global marketing. It would be a safe market for a business to invest their time and energy in creating a marketing strategy to begin importing and exporting with Switzerland. Works Cited â€Å"The World Factbook: Feb. 10, 2005.† Switzerland. 2005 . â€Å"Michigan State University: 2001-2004.† globalEDGE/country insights. 13 February 2005 .