Switzerland is one of the richest countries in the world. Its standard of living is considerably high and Switzerland has, compared to other OECD countries, a relatively high gross domestic product (GDP) per inhabitant. Even higher than the United States, EU and Japan (source: Brochure 'Switzerland in Figures', UBS 2003 edition). Also, the public debt is very low compared to other OECD countries. But other countries have caught up. In a table of cumulated growth rates of the GDP (1980-2000) Switzerland is placed last. Has Switzerland rested on its laurels? Or is it simply more difficult to grow always at the same speed, when a country already has reached a relatively high level of standard of living. Over the years, Switzerland has permitted itself the luxury of accepting a low productivity in some sectors of its economy, such as agriculture.
There are definitely more future economic opportunities for Switzerland for example by taking advantage of the language diversity in Switzerland. Probably Switzerland's school system should be reformed. The introduction of a compulsory exchange program for young Swiss students could help bring the different language regions together. More connections within Switzerland and abroad could be the consequence. Communication is often the key to a good deal. When Switzerland trusts in this strength and competitiveness, a big step in the right direction will have been made. And last but definitely not least many Swiss people should take a little more pride in the words: "We are Swiss". A lack of patriotism can be harmful for an already damaged identity of a country (too much patriotism of course is also bad). Self-confident, courageous and by acting - not always by reacting - Switzerland should accept the challenge
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