Health and security risks in expat destinations: Switzerland

Switzerland has much to draw international assignees and business from around the world. We take a look at some health and security risks associated with assignment within the country.

Zurich skyline
Organisations around the world continue to ensure their duty of care is met, a task which is made harder when sending international assignees abroad. To reduce health risks to assignees, and business and reputational risks to their employers, planning, preparation and up-to-date information are vital.As part of their series on global risk in popular expatriate destinations, global medical assistance provider CEGA and security specialist Solace Global discuss the risk rating in the Switzerland. 

Switzerland

OVERALL RISK RATINGLOWIts proximity to France has heightened Switzerland’s security concerns. Although the risk of terrorism is low, raids linked to the Paris terror attacks were made here in December 2015. Playing host to international conferences also increases the country’s appeal to terrorists and the potential for anti-capitalist unrest.
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Crime and health risks

Crime is rare, but petty theft in hotels, airports, and train stations has increased, especially in Geneva. The mountainous terrain means there is a risk of landslides and avalanches.Healthcare is world-class in major cities. In more rural parts it can be more limited, but even in small towns there will usually be GP services, and, in their mid-size counterparts, hospitals with A&E departments. These can refer a patient on for specialist care if necessary.Recommended vaccinations include tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Again, there is a risk of altitude sickness over 2,500 metres.For related news and features, visit our Business Travel section. Look out for the launch of 2018's Relocate Awards, entry opens in January. Relocate’s new Global Mobility Toolkit provides free information, practical advice and support for HR, global mobility managers and global teams operating overseas.Global Mobility Toolkit download factsheets resource centreAccess hundreds of global services and suppliers in our Online DirectoryClick to get to the Relocate Global Online Directory  

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