2 November 2016. Global interlinkage – in social, economic and political terms – is progressing persistently. This produces a variety of tensions for nation states, which control this process but are also subject to it. Switzerland, which is located in the heart of Europe is at present facing very particular challenges in this respect because of its dynamic, strongly internationalised economy and its political system that is geared to stability, to citizens’ participation in the decision-making process and to concordance.

Financial centre, industry, tourism

Switzerland’s financial institutions have had to hold their ground against strong economic, political and legal pressure in the last few years and, with the loss of banking secrecy, are undergoing a transformation of an almost fundamental dimension. The development and challenges of Switzerland as a financial centre will be the topic of Prof. Dr. Manuel Ammann’s lecture on 8 November. The strong franc, too, is putting various economic sectors under increasing pressure. Prof. Dr. Thomas Friedli ask on 15 November whether Swiss industry is at the parting of the ways. Besides full warehouses in the export industry, there is also the threat of empty beds. The further consequences and challenges that are looming over Swiss tourism will be dealt with by Prof. Dr. Pietro Beritelli on 22 November.

Fiscal policy and bilateral relations

There is also radical change in international fiscal policy. The OECD has declared war on the tax avoidance practised by big international corporations and has also continued to increase pressure on Switzerland in this respect. On 29 November, Prof. Dr. Patrick Emmenegger will talk about the balancing act between competition and cooperation in fiscal policy. Furthermore, the implementation of the mass immigration article in the Federal Constitution has already strained Switzerland’s relations with the European Union to the limit. How will things proceed with the bilateral agreements? This question will be answered by lecturer Dr. Constanze Semmelmann.

The lectures will take place at the University of St.Gallen in Room HSG 09-012 on Tuesdays at 6.15 p.m. Dates: 8 November, 15 November, 22 November, 29 November and 6 December.