Switzerland
Switzerland – Challenges of Rural Areas and Our Approach to Revitalization
In Switzerland, there is a marked internal migration trend. On average, individuals change their place of residence 7.5 times throughout their lives. As a highly developed Western country, the trend toward urbanization in Switzerland is somewhat slowing. However, rural regions, especially mountainous areas, continue to face significant challenges. Today, 85 percent of the population lives in urban areas. Young people are migrating to these urban regions, where there are more job opportunities and higher wages. As a result, rural areas are increasingly facing a shortage of labor necessary for economic development. This exacerbates the ongoing demographic shift towards an aging rural society. Structurally weak regions offer few opportunities for education and training, and geographically peripheral communities often suffer from outdated infrastructure, whether in transportation, schools, healthcare, or cultural and social facilities.
As a result: The Downward Spiral
- Talent Drain
- Lack of Social Cohesion
- Abandoned Buildings
This spiral threatens the future of entire communities – but there is a way to break it and create sustainable, positive change.
Our Approach to Revitalizing Rural Communities in Switzerland
In Switzerland, social cohesion and the revitalization of communities are actively addressed by various stakeholders. The ES VICIS Foundation is deeply involved in these efforts, working closely with cantonal and municipal authorities as well as economic actors to jointly tackle the challenges of regional development.
With eight years of experience and a successful cooperation model, ES VICIS has already revitalized numerous communities. Our foundation combines specialized knowledge with an advanced monitoring system that helps communities and cantons overcome significant challenges.
Thanks to the long-standing support of Johannes Matyassy, former Swiss Ambassador to Argentina and now President of our Foundation, ES VICIS has successfully demonstrated its effectiveness in Swiss-founded communities in Argentina. Based on this experience, we are now offering our expertise and services in Switzerland, collaborating with both the public and private sectors to develop sustainable solutions for economic growth, the strengthening of the real estate market, and social cohesion in rural regions.
Our Invitation:
We look forward to connecting with you, learning about your insights and experiences, and developing projects together that create positive change in rural areas. Let us work together to overcome the challenges and build a sustainable future for communities in Switzerland.