Paradoxically, in Switzerland, there is too little market economy in many places. The term “social market economy” frequently seems almost odd. Healthy competition and basic conditions that are connected with the people are lacking.
What do you think could be improved?
The financial centre should contribute to greater prosperity. Without it, there would be no social welfare. Therefore, prosperity in Switzerland would not be assured, resulting in less flexibility, more work, and higher taxes.
Do you know if this is true?
The financial centre is undoubtedly vital from a strategic, power-related perspective. This illustrates the existential dependence of many industries. The economic centre bolsters Swiss quality products' international influence and selling power. Therefore, macrosomia should not always be considered harmful.
Which basic conditions empower citizens?
- Health, high water quality, many local recreation areas, woodlands, more indoor food production, self-sufficiency, and an environmentally friendly, secure economy that does not involve any loss of core competencies
- Rights, participation, involvement in decision-making, autonomy, a flexible labour market and similarly flexible working and business hours, various ways of living, electoral freedom, and the ability to readily participate in the knowledge and information society
For decades, digitalisation has had the potential to facilitate efficient educational structures and the acquisition of valuable certificates and diplomas. Unfortunately, this is currently impossible in many areas.
The current state apparatus appears sententious and, in some areas, even hostile to citizens. Highly qualified experts often do not want to get involved with it. The unjustified remuneration is also incomprehensible. Changes urgently required to promote citizens’ health are neither facilitated nor implemented. Many changes would be needed in the food sector, particularly in the agricultural industry and in relation to unsustainable livestock farming.
Relevant research programmes have shown that industrial algae aquacultures are recommended, not just for meeting one’s omega-3 allowance. CO2 emissions from livestock fed certain algae types are significantly lower. This diet would also positively impact animals’ health. Studies have also shown that dogs with a vegan diet have a much higher life expectancy than their omnivorous counterparts. Promoting such projects would be a real boon for the world’s oceans and biodiversity.
Which basic conditions strengthen the national economy and contribute to greater prosperity?
Peace, security, electoral freedom, a high level of education, access to all-round high-quality education, flexible structures and measures that promote public health.
Digitalisation is too rarely used to improve the participation of all citizens. Although efforts are being made in many quarters, there is often a lack of cooperation, robust committees, associations, and checks. If properly utilised, digitalisation could strengthen fundamental rights and cultivate social intelligence. For example, courts could act and make decisions more differentiatedly. “Bottom-up and top-down approaches can be more harmonious and improve all citizens' prospects.
Reducing obsolete elements in a socially responsible, meaningful, and proportionate way would be crucial in Switzerland and other countries. This would pave the way for a more entrepreneurial society. Specific power structures should be scaled down to ensure that long-term prosperity is not threatened.
We advocate for high-quality, participatory, legally sustainable digitalisation that allows different systems to run parallel or connect. We do not strive to create additional, VAT-distant industries. Still, we make the case for making cuts, driving innovation forward, and allowing the general public to think for itself as far as possible.