Switzerland in 2025: A Year of Cultural Wins and Economic Debates

Switzerland's 2025: Eurovision Glory, Bread Wars, and Unlikely Controversies

The year 2025 proved eventful for Switzerland, marked by political shifts, cultural milestones, and economic debates. From a historic Eurovision win to heated trade disputes and unexpected controversies, the country navigated a mix of progress and challenges.

One standout moment came in May, when Switzerland hosted a celebrated Eurovision Song Contest. Yet this was only the start of a year filled with unusual headlines—ranging from bread price wars to diplomatic clashes and even a papal succession that raised eyebrows.

The year began with global attention on Donald Trump's return to power in January. His renewed interest in annexing Greenland sparked discussions, though Switzerland remained focused on domestic matters. By February, Chancellor Merz was reinforcing a political 'firewall' against the far-right AfD, while lawmakers struggled with more practical concerns—such as finding a suitable smoking lounge for National Councilor Badran in the Federal Palace.

In March, tensions rose as UBS CEO Sergio Ermotti warned of relocating the bank abroad. He cited potential state regulations and a 2.6 billion franc debt as key pressures. The threat added to economic unease, which only deepened in April when the Pope's death led to speculation about an American successor—a prospect that left many questioning the Vatican's direction.

Summer brought its own controversies. The Council of States debated relaxing export rules for war materials, framing the move as a way to support Swiss retirees. Meanwhile, alpine farming took centre stage when Ernst Wandfluh, president of the Schweizer Alpwirtschaftliche Verband, became a prominent voice in agricultural discussions. His association's concerns later resurfaced in Advent, when Globi im Wald, a children's book, spread what farmers called misleading claims about forestry practices.

Autumn saw a mix of policy and commerce clash. The federal government proposed a 50 km/h urban speed limit, a plan met with mixed reactions. At the same time, a discount grocer launched a 99-rappen loaf of bread in October, igniting a price war dubbed the 'Battle of the Bread Roll.' The competition among bakers and supermarkets quickly became a national talking point.

On the cultural front, Switzerland celebrated yodeling's recognition as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The honour highlighted the country's traditions amid modern upheavals. Yet international tensions lingered, particularly in November, when Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin secured a trade victory over Donald Trump. The deal risked flooding Swiss markets with chlorinated chicken and Tesla Cybertrucks—outcomes that divided public opinion.

As the year drew to a close, Austria prepared to host the next Eurovision, aiming to surpass Switzerland's success. But with Russian military movements still a distant concern, the country's focus remained on balancing tradition, trade, and its place in a rapidly changing world.

By December 2025, Switzerland had experienced a year of contrasts—cultural pride alongside economic threats, diplomatic wins against trade-offs, and even a children's book stirring agricultural debate. The proposed speed limits, bread price battles, and UBS's relocation warnings left lasting questions about regulation and competition.

Meanwhile, the Pope's succession and Trump's trade policies ensured that global events kept Swiss leaders on alert. As Advent arrived with Globi's controversial forest tales, one thing was clear: 2025 had been anything but ordinary.