About life in Switzerland (the ancient name of Helvetia) can be generalized to say: live there in different ways. But all lives – good. About many, perhaps, suggests at least the fact that the small alpine country with eight millionth population in the five richest countries in the world. To comfort the Swiss moved without too much haste. But persevere. More than seven centuries ago, the citizens of three picturesque valleys – Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden – an alliance of mutual assistance.
In the centuries that followed they were joined by a number of areas (the current prototypes of the cantons) and the individual cities. Such a union existed until 1848. In fact, there was, so to speak, the final, official 'Execution' of the current single federal state – the Swiss Confederation (HQ). Had missed in its history, any major revolutions and upheavals. And what is – in detail – today's Helvetia? It would be necessary to list a lot.
Known by its people Alps impeccable cheese and chocolate. Thanks to the clock, the accuracy of which is proverbial. Thanks to banks, which accumulate huge fortunes. Through high-tech exports, marked the image of William Tell crossbow. Well-oiled machine-wide (and about local issues – in the cantons) referendum is also one of the most remarkable features of the Swiss way of life. They joke that, they say, are surprised when we have time yet to work. Sometimes it is typed in by a half-dozen to any plebiscites. There are themes that appear several times, reflecting changes in the society. Repeatedly, for example, raised the issue in HQ on road tax. The prevailing solution still remains valid today. That is mandatory tax on the use of motorways. These things legislatively confirmed by parliament. He, incidentally, has a peculiarity: the members of both chambers combine their activities with their main job. Some of the 'subjects' in their re-staged show consistently increasing preponderance supporters of a decision. Such happened with the new law on marriage and inheritance, where the discussing women's rights were. While opponents and managed to secure regular surveys, they had to admit that the majority of Switzerland today – to ensure better protection of women and empowerment. I want to call and 'The UN issue. " Most of the Swiss always holds: Because their country is committed to the principle of neutrality, for They remain useful beyond the membership of the United Nations. However, the situation in nuance. Switzerland does not enter the UN, but working in a number of UN podorganizatsy and commissions, appears to mediate settlement of international conflicts and incidents.