SWISS and Edelweiss increase their fuel surcharges, resulting in higher air fares; hard-right wants to ban headscarves in schools; and more news in our Monday roundup.
Ahead of peak summer travel, SWISS and Edelweiss increase their fuel surcharges
The war in the Middle East is driving up fuel prices, affecting not only the motorists who have to pay more at the pump, but the aviation industry as well.
Because kerosene is now more expensive, SWISS and Edelweiss, like many other airlines, pass these higher costs on to consumers.
Both companies confirmed that they have raised the surcharges on air fares as a result of the climbing oil prices.
The exact amount of this hike depends on the specific route.
Hard-right wants to ban headscarves in schools
A parliamentary motion submitted by the Swiss People’s Party (SVP) calls for a ban on he hijab – a headscarf worn by many Muslim women and girls – in public schools, with sanctions for non-compliance ranging from fines to denying residence permits for immigrant parents.
The debate is gaining momentum in German-speaking Switzerland and is receiving some support from the Liberal-Radicals (FDP) and the Centre Party as well.
The Federal Council, on the other hand, rejects the ban, arguing that such a move would be socially divisive and make integration of foreigners more difficult.
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Switzerland continues to attract increasing number of wealthy ‘immigrants’
The country is still among the world’s most attractive destinations for super-rich foreigners.
In 2025, approximately 3,000 multi- millionaires have settled here, according to data from the consulting firm Henley & Partners.
This corresponds to an average of 250 per month.
The latest such arrival, Italian billionaire Lapo Elkann, said the reason for this continued influx of wealth is that “We are living in complicated times, marked by uncertainty. Switzerland embodies security, quality of life, and is located at the heart of Europe.”
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Swiss and French national railways are strengthening connections between the two countries
The SBB and SNCF Voyageurs have confirmed their commitment to further develop – through the TGV Lyria – the rail market between France and Switzerland,
In order to meet the growing demand for international travel, both national railway companies “will further explore opportunities for developing European connections from Switzerland,” the SBB said in a press release.
“Extensions and the establishment of new direct long-distance rail services from Switzerland to France and beyond will be examined,” it added.
If you have any questions about life in Switzerland, ideas for articles or news tips for The Local, please get in touch with us at news@thelocal.ch
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