When Switzerland built its railway network in the 19th century, it was about more than transport. Today, we stand at a similar juncture. Rails and trains remain essential, but the backbone of modern infrastructure is built on data and algorithms.
Context
The rapid pace of global change requires a coordinated forward-looking strategy to realise opportunities, actively manage dependencies and address public concerns. Thanks to its pioneering role in AI research and innovation, Switzerland is in a strong position today, but this must now be actively leveraged.
Enormous potential for productivity and innovation: Generative AI could increase Switzerland’s annual GDP by CHF 80 to 85 billion at peak adoption, equivalent to around 11 per cent of GDP. According to a study by Implement Consulting Group, this peak economic contribution could be reached in around ten years if Switzerland achieves widespread adoption of generative AI. As an enabling technology for innovation, AI can also accelerate research, development and innovation processes. By 2034, AI could contribute around CHF 15 billion annually to R&D driven innovation, while doubling solution quality and increasing efficiency by 10 to 20 per cent. AI also brings benefits for healthcare, education, the world of work, climate protection and public administration.
There is a risk of falling behind. While technological development is accelerating, society's capacity to engage with digital technologies is stagnating. With nearly 40 percent of the population currently lacking basic digital skills according to the latest DigitalBarometer, and fear of losing human creativity having risen to almost 75 percent, we now need a targeted skills boost to make the leap from uncertainty to confident, self-determined participation.
Securing investments: Switzerland has a highly effective traditional infrastructure in rail, road and energy. But we must now invest in digital infrastructure, particularly data centers, with the same commitment to excellence and quality. In line with recent Swiss Science Council recommendations for a long-term National AI Infrastructure Strategy, we must transition from short-term project funding to a reliable, tiered computing architecture that secures our international competitiveness.A major investment drive in resilient digital infrastructures and e-government is essential to achieve this.
With a view to the Global AI Summit 2027 in Geneva, which Switzerland will host, our goal is clear: we are positioning Switzerland as the world’s leading location for companies and organisations committed to excellence and trustworthy AI innovation.
Overall Objective
Switzerland harnesses the potential of AI to boost productivity, drive innovation and modernise public services, thereby securing its competitiveness and prosperity. Every citizen and every business possesses the necessary skills and knowledge to lead a high-quality, self-determined life in an AI-driven economy and society.
We measure the progress of the AI transformation using four overarching KPIs:
Rank 18 in AI private investments.
53% of Swiss people say they have practical AI skills (2026)
score* 66 for Switzerland on AI infrastructure positions
Rank 29 of 66 countries on AI- and digital readiness of the public administration
The Swiss AI Action Plan contributes to the positive development of these KPIs.
Overall guiding principles for shaping the future of AI in Switzerland
Focusing on opportunities
While the global discourse often retreats into risk-aversion, we choose to focus on opportunity. We simultaneously address risks and fears, yet our priority remains the immense potential for productivity and innovation. Beyond these economic drivers, AI offers benefits for the healthcare sector, the ways we learn and work, climate protection, and public administration.
Leveraging Swiss values as a strategic advantage
Swiss values – openness, cooperation, trust and rule-based reliability – are not only ethical obligations in the AI era, but also decisive strategic advantages. They are a prerequisite for societal acceptance and public trust in AI. Furthermore, Switzerland can position itself as a reliable hub for responsible AI innovation and governance, acting as a bridge between geographical camps as well as between technical innovation and ethical responsibility. Within Switzerland, too, collaboration is needed between all federal levels, as well as between business, academia, government and civil society.
Strengthening digital resilience rather than isolation
Full digital sovereignty is neither realistic nor desirable for Switzerland. Rather, the aim is for the state and for critical public services to have the necessary control and capacity to act in the digital space in order to ensure the fulfilment of state tasks in line with risk assessments. Geopolitical considerations also play a role here. For private companies, the focus is on risk management and the ability to manage dependencies.
Leveraging and further developing Switzerland’s strengths
Switzerland is already a leader in research and must continue to invest in this area. Thanks to its stable and smart political framework conditions , it can distinguish itself as a hub for trustworthy AI innovation and a bridge-builder in global AI governance. It must invest more in digital infrastructure and digital public services to keep pace with other countries.