On 14 November 2024, the Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne announced Switzerland’s impressive new position in its World Digital Competitiveness Ranking (WDCR). For the first time, Switzerland has risen to second place among 67 countries, marking its best ranking since the WDCR’s inception in 2017. This achievement reflects Switzerland’s strong progress in high-tech exports, e-participation, and cybersecurity, solidifying its status as a global digital leader.
Switzerland’s Strengths in Digital Knowledge, Technology, and Future Readiness
The World Digital Competitiveness Ranking evaluates digital competitiveness based on three key pillars: knowledge, technology, and future readiness, each of which includes several detailed sub-factors. Switzerland holds its top position in knowledge, rising to fourth place in technology and fifth in future readiness, making it one of the world’s most attractive hubs for digital investment and innovation. The nation continues to perform well in areas such as talent, regulatory framework, and scientific concentration, fostering a strong environment for international expertise and digital knowledge transfer.
Opportunities and Challenges for Switzerland in Digital Competitiveness
Despite this strong standing, there is still important work ahead. Key areas such as the digital identity (E-ID) and the electronic patient record (EPR) require continued progress. Franziska, CEO of digitalswitzerland, remarks: “To make these initiatives a success, we need not only investments but, above all, trust in technology, data security, and institutions”. Building digital trust is essential to secure Switzerland’s long-term competitiveness and develop a sustainable digital infrastructure. The path to a digitally advanced Switzerland lies in smart, secure, and future-oriented solutions that simplify citizens’ lives while upholding high standards of data protection.
