Without access to global talent, Switzerland loses its competitive edge

In 2025, Switzerland ranked first in the Global Innovation Index for the 15th time. Our companies export highly specialized goods with enormous added value, from medical technology and pharmaceuticals to the mechanical, electrical and metal industries as well as precision instruments. This innovative strength is concentrated in powerful clusters. Zurich, for example, combines research, industry and start-ups in key technology fields and has one of the world's highest AI talent density per capita. In addition to good framework conditions, financing opportunities and entrepreneurial dynamism, highly qualified specialists from a wide range of disciplines are crucial to the success of such clusters (see our dossier policy).

The example of Crypto Valley in Zug also shows that openness and attractive framework conditions enable innovation. Within just a few years, the region has developed into a leading international blockchain and fintech location. Decisive factors in this were innovation-friendly framework conditions, legal certainty and openness towards international entrepreneurs, developers and investors. Today, Crypto Valley attracts talent and companies from all over the world and creates highly qualified jobs and new added value in Switzerland. This successful model would hardly have been conceivable without international specialists and global networking.

Those who believe that Switzerland can cover its needs on its own are misjudging the reality of a highly developed but small economy. Especially in the global competition for the best minds, Switzerland must not isolate itself. In the IMD World Talent Ranking, Switzerland is currently in first place, but this top position is not guaranteed. Other countries invest heavily in research, technology and talent development. If Switzerland simultaneously signals that international specialists are no longer welcome, it will become less attractive. The consequences would be tangible: companies would increasingly shift investments abroad, fewer innovative start-ups would emerge and research projects would be carried out elsewhere.

If you want to strengthen our innovation location, you must not introduce a rigid population cap. Switzerland must remain open to talent, ideas and entrepreneurial spirit from all over the world. After all, isolation weakens innovation and therefore our prosperity in the long term. Reliable and competitive framework conditions are also crucial. This includes an efficient regulatory environment, the reduction of unnecessary bureaucracy and restraint in regulations that could slow down innovation and entrepreneurial activity.