Despite Switzerland being a wealthy country, figures from the Federal Statistics Office shows that as much as 25% of the people are at risk of poverty.
Already about 8% live below the poverty line – defined as a monthly income below CHF 2,315 person or CHF 4,000 for a family of four.
Even those who may be above that limit, nearly 20% would be unable to pay an unexpected bill of CHF 2,500.
Many others say they couldn’t even go out for a meal one a month.
The worst affected are the young – 14% of those in school say they feel very discouraged by the future.
Despite these figures, this country still has one of the highest levels of living in Europe. Beaten only by Luxembourg, Norway and Austria.
Heat to stay for now
Growing anger over World Cup red card
Fire damages trees in the Jardin Anglais
Cows sweltering in the heat
Lake Geneva nudists fight for their lake section
Holiday makers seek more than the sun
