05. Sep 2025

Global Shifts: Switzerland Must Take Action

“The rest of the world is accelerating and not waiting for us; we need to take action.” That was the conclusion reached by Claudio Loderer, founder of Rochester-Bern Executive Programs (RoBe), after last week's RoBe Economic Forum on “Global Shifts” at the Zentrum Paul Klee in Bern. At the forum, experts from the worlds of business, politics, and academia discussed the global changes currently facing Switzerland and possible solutions.

In the panel discussion, Daniel Bloch, CEO and Chairman of Chocolats Camille Bloch, emphasized that there have always been changes. However, he said that the current customs situation “is quite a shock.” In such a situation, it is important to show more willingness to take risks and a pioneering spirit. A long-term strategy combined with tactical agility is central to family businesses.

Peter Spirig, former CEO of V-Zug, also emphasized the importance of a clear vision and a shared focus. “Without these points of reference, companies lose their way,” said Spirig. He also advocated for greater customer focus, as it is often customers who show companies the direction for innovation.

Urs Wälchli, member of several boards of directors and professor of finance at Rochester-Bern, made it clear that prosperity is the result of innovative strength. Investment and a willingness to take risks are the basis for sustainable growth. The prospective composition of the board of directors plays an important role in shaping the future of the company. “The board’s expertise should not only be focused on today, but also on tomorrow,” emphasized Wälchli.

In her keynote speech, former Federal Councilor Doris Leuthard, emphasized that she sees the biggest change at present as being the erosion of international law and the suspension of the usual rules. This is very difficult for an export-oriented country like Switzerland. “Cooperation with the EU is crucial for Switzerland in this situation,” said Leuthard. She added that Switzerland must realize that it can no longer just go with the flow, but must develop its own position.

This view was also supported by Eva Jaisli, Vice President of Swissmem and Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of PB Swisstools, and Pälvi Pulli, Deputy State Secretary for Security Policy at SEPOS, in their statements. “Switzerland’s special status is under pressure,” Pulli emphasized, “we find reliable partnerships in Europe, and this is where we need to regulate and stabilize relations.”

And the conclusion? Claudio Loderer stated that the existing world order is under pressure and that it is unlikely that everything will soon return to normal. Therefore, clear visions and strategies, a willingness to adapt, smart cooperation, innovation and a willingness to take risks, a pioneering spirit, passion, and – in keeping with the spirit of 30 years of Rochester-Bern – continuing education are needed.

The following video offers a glimpse into the event.