Switzerland

	Area	Population	Religion	Language	Literacy	Life Exp.
	15,941 mi²	7,119,000	Roman Catholic, Protestant	German, French, Italian, Romansch	99%	79 years

A history of political stability and expertise in technology and commerce help explain the Swiss phenomenon: a post-industrial economy that reported the highest per capita income in the world in 1994. Founded in 1291 as a union of three cantons chafing against Habsburg rule, Switzerland has been independent since 1815; its borders now encompass 26 cantons embracing three official languages-German, French, and Italian. Foreigners make up 25 percent of the workforce. Switzerland's decision to apply for membership in the EU indicates its desire to compete in global markets with exports that make up 44 percent of the nation's economy. The UBS, Switzerland's largest bank, suffered big losses in 1998, as the secrecy practices of Swiss banks continued to come under relentless attack. Elaborate civil defense measures and a strong militia back up the Swiss policy of permanent neutrality. Although not a member of the United Nations, Switzerland is firmly committed to world peace

Area