SwissCommunity Practical issues are firmly at the top of the agenda for the CSA members who were reelected or newly elected in August 2025. Access to bank accounts is an ongoing concern for many Swiss expats, as are insurance cover and social security benefits. Swiss Abroad, particularly those outside Europe, often face obstacles when it comes to things like opening bank accounts. The Swiss Abroad also want participation in Switzerland’s democratic processes to be made easier for them. E-voting finally needs to be rolled out across the board, and digital IDs (e-ID) should now be introduced quickly after the yes vote in September 2025, say many delegates. And all, not half of, the cantons should grant Swiss Abroad the right to vote at cantonal level. New challenges ahead for the CSA A recent survey saw members of the Council of the Swiss Abroad (CSA) voice the issues that are particularly important to them at present. The “Fifth Switzerland” clearly wants to be listened to – and have its say. Dear Swiss Abroad, My tenure as director of the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSA) began on 1 January. I have previously worked at various places in Switzerland and abroad. After growing up in Aarau, I spent a total of five years in the United States studying economics and doing an MBA. It was in the US where I met my wife. My time across the pond gave me first-hand experience of life as a Swiss expat. After returning to Switzerland, I worked for several years in the banking/financial and consultancy sectors. I ventured abroad again in 2007 – to my wife’s home territory of New Caledonia, where I worked as an adviser and managing director mainly in the financial, organisational and administrative fields, while also representing Switzerland as honorary consul for many years. This dipOSA Director Daniel Hunziker – “working tirelessly on behalf of our global expatriate community” Meanwhile, new priorities have come to the fore. They include expanding digital communication channels, putting a more online-based “Swiss Review” front and centre of the expatriate message, and providing young Swiss Abroad with greater support. Several delegates noted the growing proportion of second- and third-generation Swiss Abroad – young people, of whom many no longer have any direct ties to Switzerland. This is why language courses, exchange trips, and online offers are all the more important in strengthening the expatriate connection, they said. Delegates also want greater involvement in the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSA) and its processes, suggesting thematic working groups and regular consultations as ways to achieve this. Based on the survey results, the OSA Executive Board will propose a set of goals for the current legislative term. CSA members will discuss these objectives in March 2026, making changes where necessary before approving them. In doing so, they will soon get their wish of being at the heart of OSA decision-making. (LW) lomatic role gave me a direct insight into the issues and challenges facing the “Fifth Switzerland”. I have headed several companies and executed complex projects in different sectors during my professional life, gaining broad leadership experience as well as practical expertise in developing and managing organisations. Thanks to my numerous years abroad, I am more than familiar with the expectations, challenges and realities of being a Swiss Abroad. I am now looking forward to putting this knowledge to good use at the OSA and working tirelessly on behalf of our global expatriate community. Kind regards, Daniel Hunziker CSA members want participation in Switzerland’s democratic processes to be made easier for them. 34 Swiss Review / February 2026 / No.1
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