Quotes

“We cannot allow people to perish.”

Federal Councillor Simonetta Sommaruga on the refugee crisis in the Mediterranean

“Those swimming in money impertinently hold onto a life belt.”

Ernst R. Hauschka (1926?–?2012), German lyricist and aphorist

“Switzerland is gradually being destroyed.”

Toni Brunner, President of the Swiss People’s Party (SVP), on the supposed centre-left alliance in Parliament

“Switzerland has already disappeared. The Switzerland you and I grew up in that is. But it emerges anew every day. More diverse. More world-encompassing. More surprising. Play a part and delight in it!”

Franz Hohler, Swiss author and cabaret artist

“The Radical Free Democratic Party (FDP) used to table solutions and then immediately put forward a dissertation to justify them. Those days are gone.”

Philippe Müller, FDP President, on his party’s new style and self-perception

“Status is like honour. Both only exist in the eyes of others.” 

Katja Gentinetta, Swiss political philosopher

“Levity is a convivial way of gaining experience.”

Art van Rheyn (1939?–?2005), German poet and aphorist

“Democracy is a device that ensures we shall be governed no better than we deserve.”

George Bernard Shaw (1856?–?1950), Irish dramatist and politician