It’s not unusual in Switzerland to see the Federal President waiting for his morning train alongside ordinary commuters, or an international star walking down a busy shopping street without being accosted. Because it’s so safe here, even the most senior politicians don’t need bodyguards in public and the Swiss are so discreet that it would be almost unheard of for them to accost a celebrity on the street.

Discretion was a key reason why singer Tina Turner moved to Switzerland after retiring from show business. “Right from the start, I fell for the nature and for the fresh air that allows me to breathe freely. I also love the Swiss way of life. My privacy is respected. I feel safe here,” she said in an interview with Swiss newspaper Blick.

The principle of prudence also has a long tradition at state level. Switzerland’s political system is based on consensus. Together, the four largest parties form a government. Members of government present a united front to the outside world. This creates an extremely stable system. Switzerland observes a policy of neutrality on the international stage. Thus, the state often acts as an intermediary between countries in conflict.

The role of honest broker demands discretion. Switzerland plays its part behind closed doors. It is left to the parties concerned to provide information about the state of negotiations. Thus, few details are publicly available on how Switzerland performs its role. Hence the country’s reputation in diplomatic circles. This is evident from the number of times Switzerland has mediated in recent decades.

Stability is not the only thing valued by locals and visitors: safety is also a key factor that makes the quality of life so good here. The travel risk map published by security service providers International SOS and the Travel Risk Management Council identifies only 11 countries as absolutely safe. Switzerland is one of them. According to the study, political security in the country is high and medical risk is negligible.

Switzerland is also an international leader in terms of road safety. This is thanks to a strictly regulated transport sector and prevention campaigns. Switzerland also has a safe and well-developed public transport network. Rail travel is fast and reliable. So, unsurprisingly, it’s a common choice for politicians and senior business representatives too.