Bern and Brussels may be trying to foster stronger links, but many people in Switzerland fear increased immigration
Bern, the administrative capital of non-EU member Switzerland. Photo: Getty
Some French cynics, especially those who live close to the Swiss border, mockingly refer to their rich neighbours as “Les chers petits Suisses”. The pun, enhanced by the coincidence that it is also the name of a type of sweet cake, also works in English: “The dear little Swiss.”
Swiss prices mean few ordinary mortals can afford much shopping in Switzerland, leaving it to the super-rich visitors and, well, the dear little Swiss.