The Swiss are proud of their country, but cautious on AI
Our Ipsos Global Trends are gaining attention in the Swiss national media. This coverage brings to light the unique perspectives of the Swiss population towards their national identity, technology, and societal issues. The study reveals that the Swiss are notably proud of their country, with 65% expressing strong national pride, a sentiment that surpasses the European average and is more pronounced than in neighbour countries like France and Germany. This pride is reflected in their trust in government, with 38% believing in the government’s ability to plan for the long-term, a figure that also exceeds the European average.
However, the Swiss exhibit caution when it comes to new technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI). Only 39% of respondents believe AI will have a positive impact on the world, compared to 41% of Europeans and 57% globally. This cautious stance is especially prevalent among older generations, while younger individuals tend to be more optimistic about technological advancements.
The survey also sheds light on Swiss perspectives regarding immigration, which presents a complex picture. While 57% of respondents feel there are too many immigrants in Switzerland, nearly half (48%) recognize the positive contributions of immigration to society. This duality reflects generational and educational divides, with younger and more educated individuals generally holding more favorable views on immigration.In terms of societal values, the Swiss demonstrate a conservative approach, especially concerning gender roles. Although 53% support increasing women in leadership positions, 30% still believe that a woman’s primary role is to be a good mother and wife. Interestingly, this traditional view is more common among younger respondents, highlighting a potential area for increased gender equality advocacy.
