News & Trends
Digital Infrastructure: Is Switzerland a Futuremover?
SWITZERLAND IS MOVING INTO THE DIGITAL FUTURE WITH FORESIGHT AND VISION: with stable framework conditions, democratic values and a well-developed digital infrastructure that makes innovative technologies possible in the first place.
The world rubbed its eyes in amazement when bots like ChatGPT appeared out of nowhere at the end of 2022, redefining our understanding of writing, creating music and art. But that was just the beginning: modern technologies such as AI, Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain and quantum computing are shaping our future. Once the necessary digital infrastructure is in place, they will transform education systems, revolutionise medicine, and completely change our professions. They will bring more productive models to businesses, educational institutions, as well as hospitals, and create smart, green cities. The digital infrastructure is at the heart of our increasingly digitised world — it is what makes innovation possible in the first place. How evolved is Switzerland?
Internet in Switzerland — Ready for the Future
Switzerland’s digital infrastructure is impressive: in addition to fast and reliable Internet, 5G standard and comprehensive broadband coverage, Switzerland has been investing in the expansion of its fibre-optic network for years. These are all prerequisites for transferring large amounts of data in a short period of time — and for creating pioneering innovations using the new technologies.
Switzerland
Johs Höhener
uses innovative
technologies
on the basis of
stable framework conditions
and democratic
values.
Fintech Influencer of the Year 2024
Data in Switzerland — Protected and Secure
Switzerland has also made a name for itself as a secure data location. This is due not least to its political, legal and economic stability. Recent regulations on digital use have created additional security. In 2021, Switzerland passed the world’s first blockchain law, and the new Swiss Data Protection Act has been in force since 2023. And it is just a matter of time before Switzerland will regulate the use of artificial intelligence, like the EU with the AI Act.
Digital Education and Research — Switzerland Leads the World
With its high-quality dual vocational education system, together with the world-renowned technical universities of applied sciences, universities and research institutes, Switzerland provides the best breeding ground for innovation and, thanks to its high quality of living, is also attractive to international experts.
Requirements for a Future-Proof Digital Infrastructure
The digital infrastructure paves the way for a connected and advanced society that successfully addresses the challenges and opportunities of the future. These aspects are crucial:
MODERN TECHNOLOGY
High-speed broadband
Internet in all corners of the country
Robust security and data protection infrastructure
INNOVATIONS
Investments in innovative technologies that enable seamless coexistence and interaction — whether it’s AI, IoT or blockchain
Innovative partnerships between the government and businesses
POLICIES
Clear policies and regulations to mitigate risk
EDUCATION
Low-threshold and accessible education
Switzerland In An International Comparison
What We Can Learn from South Korea
South Korea is high tech: for example, the country built the 5G infrastructure at a recordbreaking speed, setting the stage for innovative solutions based on AI or IoT. South Korea is a world leader in broadband coverage and Internet speed. It also takes digital education for the people and cooperation with businesses very seriously. With the “Korean New Deal” from 2020, the heart of the new economic strategy, South Korea wants to spend trillions on expanding the digital infrastructure, but also on basic scientific work and developing social structures. The programme aims to pave the way for a digitalised future.
These Are the Challenges to Be Mastered by Switzerland
Direct democracy
The Swiss people are entitled to have their say, to participate in decisionmaking and to take part in referendums. This promotes an innovative approach, but it prolongs the decision-making process.
Federalism and bureaucracy
The power of the cantons makes it difficult to develop a roadmap with common, clearly defined goals. This is particularly evident in the education sector. Complex and non-uniform framework conditions or lengthy authorisation procedures can also hamper progress.
eGovernment
Vote with a click? Register a company online? Use health services digitally? There is still a lack of comprehensive digital services from public administration in Switzerland for it to be able to keep up with other countries. Digital forms of ID, driving licences, health files and signatures are required.
Digital inclusion
The average age is rising — and with it the challenge of keeping everyone on board with digital progress. It is not only older people but also poorer or disabled people who find it more difficult to access digital information and services in Switzerland. Programming, data analysis and an understanding of technologies should therefore be integrated into all education plans.
Healthcare
Rapid and far-reaching coverage digitisation of administration and services.
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Read more articles from our current issue: ‘Is Switzerland a Futuremover?’.
