Scorching summer yields to a heated political autumn in Switzerland

As summer's intense heat gives way to a potentially "scorching" autumn, a Swiss opinion piece reflects on a period where global conflicts appeared to recede from public consciousness. The author notes that since early July, the world seemed to pause, with major events like the G7 summit yielding little tangible result and media attention shifting to football and heatwaves. Even the wars in Iran and Ukraine, along with fluctuating oil tanker traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, seemed more distant.

The piece suggests that a sense of global calm prevailed during the holidays, with protests fading and international tensions momentarily easing. However, this "torpor" is about to be broken by a series of pressing issues. The author points to the migratory "invasion" at Ceuta and wildfires in neighboring France as events that have begun to reawaken public attention, alongside a solar eclipse.

The upcoming political calendar promises a "very hot" return to business. On September 27, Swiss citizens will vote on two significant referendums. One proposes increasing food self-sufficiency to 70% through a shift towards more plant-based and sustainable production, coupled with enhanced protection for drinking water. The author deems this proposal "too excessive" and unlikely to pass. The second referendum aims to better define and constitutionally embed Swiss neutrality, ensuring its effectiveness regardless of external conflicts or international partners.