Albisgüetli conference Guy Parmelin sees Switzerland in "almost non-stop crisis mode"
Although he is no longer giving a speech, he is still the center of attention at the Albisgüetli: former Federal Councillor Christoph Blocher welcomes Zurich's Director of Education Silvia Steiner (center).
Image: Keystone
SVP President Guy Parmelin (left) enters the Albisgüetli with Zurich SVP President Domenik Ledergerber.
Image: Keystone
Although he is no longer giving a speech, he is still the center of attention at the Albisgüetli: former Federal Councillor Christoph Blocher welcomes Zurich's Director of Education Silvia Steiner (center).
Image: Keystone
SVP President Guy Parmelin (left) enters the Albisgüetli with Zurich SVP President Domenik Ledergerber.
Image: Keystone
Switzerland has been in "almost non-stop crisis mode" for several years now, said SVP President Guy Parmelin in his speech at the Albisgüetli conference on Friday. "The unpredictable has become the rule."
16.01.2026, 19:54
16.01.2026, 22:01
SDA
The coronavirus pandemic was followed by "the outbreak of war in Ukraine" and tensions over energy supplies. Shortly afterwards came the collapse of Credit Suisse and last year the customs dispute, said Parmelin in the packed Albisgüetli.
"After the turbulent year 2025, I have prepared myself for the fact that many things will not be predictable in my second year as president." However, it was unimaginable for him that the "almost impossible" had already happened an hour and a half into the new year.
"Life is unpredictable and vulnerable"
"The accident in Crans-Montana is a stark reminder of how unpredictable, uncertain and vulnerable life can be," continued Parmelin. His thoughts are still with the many people affected, the dead, the injured and their families. "The consequences will be with us for a very long time."
On the other hand, such events also show that Switzerland stands together in difficult situations, regardless of social and political differences. "I was deeply impressed by the great solidarity within Switzerland, but also from other countries," said the President of the Swiss Confederation.
"Plans thrown overboard"
Such an event teaches him as a politician to remain flexible and pragmatic. "Our plans, programs and concepts can be overturned overnight," said Parmelin.
The Zurich SVP is holding its traditional Albisgüetli conference this Friday. The event is fully booked, even without Christoph Blocher as a longstanding mainstay at the lectern.
