Four members of a French family were found dead at the bottom of their apartment building in Switzerland last week. Swiss police say the family members jumped off a balcony "one by one". Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: French family leapt off balcony "one by one"

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

According to reports, Russian officials have seized millions of dollars worth of Swiss watches as part of retaliation against Swiss sanctions.

Swiss media reported that premium Audemars Piguet watches were seized by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB).

The Swiss government had declared to freeze&nbsp;Russian assets worth $6.2 billion as part of sanctions against Putin's regime. The Swiss government has also reportedly asked its banks to report individuals and companies linked to Russia.

Switzerland's ministry said it had frozen the assets but had not confiscated the property of Russians.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-could-russian-president-vladimir-putin-be-prosecuted-for-war-crimes-in-ukraine-465719">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;How could Russian President Vladimir Putin be prosecuted for war crimes in Ukraine?</a>

Swiss President Ignazio Cassis had called the Russian invasion against Ukraine a "devastating madness" as the country decided to impose similar sanctions as the EU despite Switzerland's neutral status within Europe.

The Swiss president however conceded that there would be "sustained and significant inflation and rising energy prices" as he prepared the country for the consequences arising out of the Ukraine war.

Watch|&nbsp;'Nowhere to live here': Mariupol residents return to destroyed homes

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nowhere-to-live-here-mariupol-residents-return-to-destroyed-homes-ukraine-466410/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Swiss government had earlier decided not to grant "any requests to fly over Swiss territory from the parties in the conflict" however the move did not involve humanitarian or medical flights.&nbsp;

The government reiterated that the implementation of sanctions was "compatible with Switzerland's neutrality" despite rumblings from some domestic groups over its stand.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/history-of-urban-warfare-why-russia-will-find-it-difficult-to-conquer-kyiv-465932">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;History of urban warfare &amp; why Russia will find it difficult to conquer Kyiv</a>

The Swiss government also blocked the export of goods and other related services for the Russian energy sector. "Also prohibited is the participation in businesses active in the energy sector and the provision of loans or other financial resources to such businesses," it said.

The move was in line with EU sanctions as the Swiss government said all measures contained in the EU's fourth package of sanctions have been implemented.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. According to reports, Russian officials have seized millions of dollars worth of Swiss watches as part of retaliation against Swiss sanctions. Swiss media reported that premium Audemars Piguet watches were seized by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB). The Swiss government had declared to freeze Russian assets worth $6.2 billion as part of sanctions against Putin's regime. The Swiss government has also reportedly asked its banks to report individuals and companies linked to Russia. Switzerland's ministry said it had frozen the assets but had not confiscated the property of Russians. Also Read in Pics: How could Russian President Vladimir Putin be prosecuted for war crimes in Ukraine? Swiss President Ignazio Cassis had called the Russian invasion against Ukraine a "devastating madness" as the country decided to impose similar sanctions as the EU despite Switzerland's neutral status within Europe. The Swiss president however conceded that there would be "sustained and significant inflation and rising energy prices" as he prepared the country for the consequences arising out of the Ukraine war. Watch| 'Nowhere to live here': Mariupol residents return to destroyed homes The Swiss government had earlier decided not to grant "any requests to fly over Swiss territory from the parties in the conflict" however the move did not involve humanitarian or medical flights. The government reiterated that the implementation of sanctions was "compatible with Switzerland's neutrality" despite rumblings from some domestic groups over its stand. Also Read in Pics: History of urban warfare & why Russia will find it difficult to conquer Kyiv The Swiss government also blocked the export of goods and other related services for the Russian energy sector. "Also prohibited is the participation in businesses active in the energy sector and the provision of loans or other financial resources to such businesses," it said. The move was in line with EU sanctions as the Swiss government said all measures contained in the EU's fourth package of sanctions have been implemented. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia seizes premium Swiss watches amid sanctions: Report

The 20-year-old Iga Swiatek is set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history.

After her 6-2, 6-0 victory over Viktorija Golubic on Friday night at the Miami Open, Swiatek secured the WTA Tour's No.1 ranking.

It will become official on Monday, April 4, when the newly retired Ashleigh Barty's name will come off the list at her request.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/swiss-open-pv-sindhu-h-s-prannoy-storm-into-semis-with-victories-in-respective-women-men-singles-events-465529">Swiss Open: PV Sindhu, H S Prannoy storm into semis with victories in respective women, men singles events</a>

Swiatek becomes the 28th woman to reach the WTA summit. By comparison, since the rankings were introduced in 1975, there have been 184 major tournaments, with 52 different women winning titles.

She's the youngest player to make her No.1 debut since Caroline Wozniacki, who was 216 days younger, in 2010.

Swiatek is currently the WTA's most in-form player. She's on a career-best 12-match winning streak and has a tour-high 21 wins this year, with WTA 1000 titles in Doha and Indian Wells.

The 20-year-old Iga Swiatek is set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history. After her 6-2, 6-0 victory over Viktorija Golubic on Friday night at the Miami Open, Swiatek secured the WTA Tour's No.

The 20-year-old Iga Swiatek is set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history. After her 6-2, 6-0 victory over Viktorija Golubic on Friday night at the Miami Open, Swiatek secured the WTA Tour's No.1 ranking. It will become official on Monday, April 4, when the newly retired Ashleigh Barty's name will come off the list at her request. ALSO READ: Swiss Open: PV Sindhu, H S Prannoy storm into semis with victories in respective women, men singles events Swiatek becomes the 28th woman to reach the WTA summit. By comparison, since the rankings were introduced in 1975, there have been 184 major tournaments, with 52 different women winning titles. She's the youngest player to make her No.1 debut since Caroline Wozniacki, who was 216 days younger, in 2010. Swiatek is currently the WTA's most in-form player. She's on a career-best 12-match winning streak and has a tour-high 21 wins this year, with WTA 1000 titles in Doha and Indian Wells.

Iga Swiatek set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history after win against Golubic in Miami Open

Switzerland’s president Ignazio Cassis said that Russia’s invasion in Ukraine is driven by “devastating madness” and Switzerland is prepared to pay the cost for protecting freedom and democracy. <o:p></o:p>

Although Switzerland generally refrains from taking sides in most global disputes, they have decided to impose the same sanctions on Russia as the European Union. However, Cassis made it clear that Switzerland’s neutrality was not at stake due to the decision and it was taken after proper deliberation. <o:p></o:p>

However, he said that Switzerland could not simply stand by in the “confrontation between democracy and barbarism” and the country was prepared to take an economic hit as a result.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/demoralised-russian-troops-shoot-selves-with-ukrainian-ammo-in-legs-to-avoid-fighting-say-reports-463966" hreflang="en">'Russian troops shoot selves with Ukrainian ammo in legs to avoid fighting'</a>

“On February 24, the face of the world changed, and not in a good way. We must valiantly and tirelessly defend freedom and democracy. This has a price. A price that Switzerland is ready to assume”, he wrote in Le Temps newspaper. “This war is driven by a devastating madness which shatters all the principles and values of our civilisation,” he added. <o:p></o:p>

Although there is no current impact on Switzerland’s economy due to the sanctions, Cassis said that the conflict may cause harm to them in the long run and they need to be ready for the possibility.<o:p></o:p>

“There is no solution which, with a wave of a magic wand, would save Switzerland from the consequences resulting from the current situation”, he said.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-multiple-rocket-launcher-says-south-korean-military-463984">North Korea fires multiple rocket launcher, says South Korean military</a>

“Switzerland cannot tolerate this war without reacting,”. <o:p></o:p>

“Russia has massively violated the prohibition of the use of force, a principle anchored in international law. By remaining inactive, Switzerland would have played the game of the aggressor.”

<o:p>Watch |&nbsp;</o:p>Ukraine-Russia crisis: Kyiv seeks global support against Moscow

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-russia-crisis-kyiv-seeks-global-support-against-moscow-463911/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from agencies)

Switzerland’s president Ignazio Cassis said that Russia’s invasion in Ukraine is driven by “devastating madness” and Switzerland is prepared to pay the cost for protecting freedom and democracy.

Switzerland’s president Ignazio Cassis said that Russia’s invasion in Ukraine is driven by “devastating madness” and Switzerland is prepared to pay the cost for protecting freedom and democracy. Although Switzerland generally refrains from taking sides in most global disputes, they have decided to impose the same sanctions on Russia as the European Union. However, Cassis made it clear that Switzerland’s neutrality was not at stake due to the decision and it was taken after proper deliberation. However, he said that Switzerland could not simply stand by in the “confrontation between democracy and barbarism” and the country was prepared to take an economic hit as a result. Also read | 'Russian troops shoot selves with Ukrainian ammo in legs to avoid fighting' “On February 24, the face of the world changed, and not in a good way. We must valiantly and tirelessly defend freedom and democracy. This has a price. A price that Switzerland is ready to assume”, he wrote in Le Temps newspaper. “This war is driven by a devastating madness which shatters all the principles and values of our civilisation,” he added. Although there is no current impact on Switzerland’s economy due to the sanctions, Cassis said that the conflict may cause harm to them in the long run and they need to be ready for the possibility. “There is no solution which, with a wave of a magic wand, would save Switzerland from the consequences resulting from the current situation”, he said. Also read | North Korea fires multiple rocket launcher, says South Korean military “Switzerland cannot tolerate this war without reacting,”. “Russia has massively violated the prohibition of the use of force, a principle anchored in international law. By remaining inactive, Switzerland would have played the game of the aggressor.” Watch | Ukraine-Russia crisis: Kyiv seeks global support against Moscow (With inputs from agencies)

Switzerland ready to pay for defending democracy in Russia-Ukraine war, says PM

Thousands gathered in Switzerland’s Engadin on Sunday for a competition that took place after a gap of two years. Watch what the event was and who won the competition.

Watch why thousands gathered in Switzerland’s Engadin after two years

&nbsp;A leak of data from a leading Swiss bank has revealed information about 600 accounts linked to 1400 Pakistani citizens, media reports said on Sunday. Account-holders include several key politicians and generals, including the ex-ISI chief, General Akhtar Abdur Rahman Khan, according to data leaked from Credit Suisse, an investment banking firm registered in Switzerland.

A report published in The New York Times said Khan helped funnel billions of dollars in cash and other aid from the United States and other countries to the mujahedeen in Afghanistan to support their fight against the Soviet Union.The Saudi Arabian and US funding for mujahideen fighters battling Russia's presence in Afghanistan went to the American Central Intelligence Agency's (CIA) Swiss bank account, the Dawn newspaper reported, citing an Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-faces-flak-over-new-laws-to-silence-media-opposition-454977">Pakistan PM Imran Khan faces flak over new laws 'to silence media, Opposition'</a>

"The end recipient in the process was Pakistan`s Inter-Services Intelligence group (ISI), [at the time] led by Akhtar," the publication quoting the report said.The average maximum balance in accounts held by Pakistanis was 4.42 million Swiss francs, The News International newspaper reported. The Pakistani publication further noted that several politically exposed persons didn't mention these accounts which they opened at a time when they were holders of public office, in their assets declaration submitted to the Election Commission of Pakistan.

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan eyes citizens' gold to boost foreign exchange reserves

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-eyes-citizens-gold-to-boost-foreign-exchange-reserves-454981/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The latest leaks follow the so-called Panama Papers in 2016, the Paradise Papers in 2017 and the Pandora Papers of last year. A self-described whistle-blower leaked data on more than 18,000 bank accounts, collectively holding more than $100 billion, to the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung, reported The New York Times. Further revelations are expected in the upcoming days, as more information about the leak becomes public. Earlier in January, Pakistan ranked 140 out of 180 on Corruption Perception Index (CPI) 2021 by Transparency International, losing 16 spots over the previous year.

A leak of data from a leading Swiss bank has revealed information about 600 accounts linked to 1400 Pakistani citizens, media reports said on Sunday. Account-holders include several key politicians and generals, including the ex-ISI chief, General Akhtar Abdur Rahman Khan, according to data leaked from Credit Suisse, an investment banking firm registered in Switzerland.

A leak of data from a leading Swiss bank has revealed information about 600 accounts linked to 1400 Pakistani citizens, media reports said on Sunday. Account-holders include several key politicians and generals, including the ex-ISI chief, General Akhtar Abdur Rahman Khan, according to data leaked from Credit Suisse, an investment banking firm registered in Switzerland. A report published in The New York Times said Khan helped funnel billions of dollars in cash and other aid from the United States and other countries to the mujahedeen in Afghanistan to support their fight against the Soviet Union.The Saudi Arabian and US funding for mujahideen fighters battling Russia's presence in Afghanistan went to the American Central Intelligence Agency's (CIA) Swiss bank account, the Dawn newspaper reported, citing an Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) report. Also read | Pakistan PM Imran Khan faces flak over new laws 'to silence media, Opposition' "The end recipient in the process was Pakistan`s Inter-Services Intelligence group (ISI), [at the time] led by Akhtar," the publication quoting the report said.The average maximum balance in accounts held by Pakistanis was 4.42 million Swiss francs, The News International newspaper reported. The Pakistani publication further noted that several politically exposed persons didn't mention these accounts which they opened at a time when they were holders of public office, in their assets declaration submitted to the Election Commission of Pakistan. Watch | Pakistan eyes citizens' gold to boost foreign exchange reserves The latest leaks follow the so-called Panama Papers in 2016, the Paradise Papers in 2017 and the Pandora Papers of last year. A self-described whistle-blower leaked data on more than 18,000 bank accounts, collectively holding more than $100 billion, to the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung, reported The New York Times. Further revelations are expected in the upcoming days, as more information about the leak becomes public. Earlier in January, Pakistan ranked 140 out of 180 on Corruption Perception Index (CPI) 2021 by Transparency International, losing 16 spots over the previous year.

Billions of dollars stashed by Pakistani generals, officials in Swiss bank: Reports

Credit Suisse, which is a global investment bank and financial services firm based in Switzerland, on Sunday (February 20) said that it "strongly rejects" allegations of wrongdoing. Credit Suisse is apparently Switzerland's second-largest lender. &nbsp;

Multiple media outlets have published results of investigations into a leak of data on thousands of accounts held there in previous decades.&nbsp;

The documents termed "Suisse Secrets" have been published by Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP). It is an international investigation into one of the world's wealthiest and most important banks.&nbsp;

The documents have been compiled after more than 163 journalists from 48 media outlets in 39 countries across the world spent months analysing bank account information leaked from Credit Suisse.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plans-to-cut-ties-with-targeted-russian-banks-if-ukraine-is-invaded-sources-454960">US plans to cut ties with targeted Russian banks if Ukraine is invaded: Sources</a>

OCCRP stated that the leak included more than 18,000 accounts that held in excess of $100 billion at their peak. It is the only known leak of a major Swiss bank's client data to journalists.&nbsp;

The reports mentioned that the leaked data was provided to the German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung by an anonymous source more than a year ago and the data includes information about more than 18,000 Credit Suisse accounts and 30,000 account holders.&nbsp;

The investigative report, as published by several media out claims to have found evidence that some of the accounts show trails of involvement in serious crimes such as money laundering or drug trafficking.&nbsp;

The report states that the Suisse Secrets project investigates these account holders, whose exploitation of Swiss banking secrecy is a "prime example of how the international financial industry enables theft and corruption".&nbsp;

"Given Credit Suisse's numerous pledges to reform its due diligence practices over the years, the project highlights the need for increased accountability in this sector," a part of the OCCRP report noted. v

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/these-are-the-3-indian-cities-with-the-most-millionaire-households-454437">These are the 3 Indian cities with the most millionaire households</a>

Meanwhile, the Swiss bank has rejected the allegations. In a statement, it said, "The matters presented are predominantly historical, in some cases dating back as far as the 1940s, and the accounts of these matters are based on partial, inaccurate, or selective information taken out of context."&nbsp;

Credit Suisse further said that it had reviewed accounts that were likely related to the investigative report. "Approximately 90% of the reviewed accounts are today closed or were in the process of closure prior to receipt of the press inquiries, of which over 60% were closed before 2015," it said.&nbsp;

Credit Suisse also said that it was "deeply aware of its responsibility to clients and the financial system as a whole to ensure that the highest standards of conduct are upheld".&nbsp;

It said, "These media allegations appear to be a concerted effort to discredit not only the bank but the Swiss financial market-place as a whole, which has undergone significant changes over the last several years."&nbsp;

Credit Suisse, which is a global investment bank and financial services firm based in Switzerland, on Sunday (February 20) said that it "strongly rejects" allegations of wrongdoing.

Credit Suisse, which is a global investment bank and financial services firm based in Switzerland, on Sunday (February 20) said that it "strongly rejects" allegations of wrongdoing. Credit Suisse is apparently Switzerland's second-largest lender. Multiple media outlets have published results of investigations into a leak of data on thousands of accounts held there in previous decades. The documents termed "Suisse Secrets" have been published by Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP). It is an international investigation into one of the world's wealthiest and most important banks. The documents have been compiled after more than 163 journalists from 48 media outlets in 39 countries across the world spent months analysing bank account information leaked from Credit Suisse. ALSO READ | US plans to cut ties with targeted Russian banks if Ukraine is invaded: Sources OCCRP stated that the leak included more than 18,000 accounts that held in excess of $100 billion at their peak. It is the only known leak of a major Swiss bank's client data to journalists. The reports mentioned that the leaked data was provided to the German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung by an anonymous source more than a year ago and the data includes information about more than 18,000 Credit Suisse accounts and 30,000 account holders. The investigative report, as published by several media out claims to have found evidence that some of the accounts show trails of involvement in serious crimes such as money laundering or drug trafficking. The report states that the Suisse Secrets project investigates these account holders, whose exploitation of Swiss banking secrecy is a "prime example of how the international financial industry enables theft and corruption". "Given Credit Suisse's numerous pledges to reform its due diligence practices over the years, the project highlights the need for increased accountability in this sector," a part of the OCCRP report noted. v ALSO READ | These are the 3 Indian cities with the most millionaire households Meanwhile, the Swiss bank has rejected the allegations. In a statement, it said, "The matters presented are predominantly historical, in some cases dating back as far as the 1940s, and the accounts of these matters are based on partial, inaccurate, or selective information taken out of context." Credit Suisse further said that it had reviewed accounts that were likely related to the investigative report. "Approximately 90% of the reviewed accounts are today closed or were in the process of closure prior to receipt of the press inquiries, of which over 60% were closed before 2015," it said. Credit Suisse also said that it was "deeply aware of its responsibility to clients and the financial system as a whole to ensure that the highest standards of conduct are upheld". It said, "These media allegations appear to be a concerted effort to discredit not only the bank but the Swiss financial market-place as a whole, which has undergone significant changes over the last several years."

'Suisse Secrets': Switzerland based bank denies wrongdoing after massive data leak shows trails of dirty money

Switzerland's Michelle Gisin retained her Olympic title in the women's combined on Thursday as American Mikaela Shiffrin yet again failed to finish.

Gisin won gold with a total time of 2:25.67, a comfortable 1.05 ahead of compatriot Wendy Holdener. Italy's Federica Brignone finished in the bronze medal position.

Shiffrin was a strong favourite, even after her ill-fated performances at these Games, but for the third time here had the letters DNF - Did Not Finish -- next to her name.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-winter-olympics-swedens-sandra-naeslund-wins-womens-ski-cross-final-takes-home-gold-453970">Beijing Winter Olympics: Sweden's Sandra Naeslund wins women's ski cross final, takes home gold</a>

She was well placed as fifth fastest after the morning's downhill leg but, returning to the Ice River course where she had skied out in both the giant slalom and slalom, Shiffrin missed a gate and incredibly skied off the course yet again.

"I didn’t make it to the finish again, and like 60 percent of my DNF rate has happened at this Olympic Games," said the American who came into the Games as the star of the sport and the great American medal hope.

"I didn’t feel pressure there. I mean there is always pressure but I just felt loose and relaxed and like I knew my plan, focused and good skiing - I was doing it and it still didn’t work. That is what it is," she said.

The six-times world champion has had 47 World Cup victories in slalom but that experience has counted for precious little in Beijing.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beijing-winter-olympics-canada-reclaims-gold-medal-us-settles-for-silver-in-ice-hockey-453962">Beijing Winter Olympics: Canada reclaims gold medal, U.S. settles for silver in ice hockey</a>

"47 different times I had this feeling - the right balance of intensity, focus, the feeling I had on my skis - it always worked.

"It was always good, fast skiing but I never had an issue not finishing and especially not that early. So it is just a little bit of a mind-boggling event I guess".

Shiffrin won gold in giant slalom at Pyeongchang 2018 after winning the slalom title at Sochi 2014. She also claimed the silver medal in the combined four years ago.

BELOW EXPECTATIONS

The 26-year-old has competed in every individual event in Beijing but her results have been way below all expectations. She was only able to complete the speed events, finishing ninth in the super-G and 18th in the downhill.

But while Americans scratch their heads over Shiffrin's sudden loss of form, the Swiss are basking in their domination of the sport.

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kamila-valieva-recieves-loud-cheers-breaks-down-after-returning-to-action-for-1st-time-since-doping-scandal-453839">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kamila-valieva-recieves-loud-cheers-breaks-down-after-returning-to-action-for-1st-time-since-doping-scandal-453839">Kamila Valieva receives loud cheers, breaks down after returning to action for 1st time since doping scandal</a>

Gisin's victory produced the fifth gold for the Swiss team at these Games and the second medal for both Gisin and Holdener.

"Four years ago I did it with my downhill and this time I did it with my slalom. It's a pity that Mikaela did not finish, I would love to have battled for gold with her," said Gisin

"I didn't think I could put a slalom run together like this after these three weeks, it was so intense."

Three of the Swiss Alpine team's golds have been for women and the country's Alpine medal tally in Beijing stands at nine in total, including a bronze in super-G for Gisin while Holdener finished third in slalom.

The pair had both medalled in the combined in Pyeongchang with Holdener taking bronze as Gisin triumphed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/richardson-case-different-from-kamila-valievas-international-olympic-committee-453832">American sprinter Richardson's case 'different' from Kamila Valieva's: International Olympic Committee</a>

Czech Ester Ledecka finished fourth, narrowly missing out on an Alpine medal to go with her snowboard gold in the parallel giant slalom.

Four years ago, Ledecka made history when she became the first athlete to win gold in both her snowboard event and Alpine, where she won in super-G.

Switzerland's Michelle Gisin retained her Olympic title in the women's combined on Thursday as American Mikaela Shiffrin yet again failed to finish. Gisin won gold with a total time of 2:25.

Switzerland's Michelle Gisin retained her Olympic title in the women's combined on Thursday as American Mikaela Shiffrin yet again failed to finish. Gisin won gold with a total time of 2:25.67, a comfortable 1.05 ahead of compatriot Wendy Holdener. Italy's Federica Brignone finished in the bronze medal position. Shiffrin was a strong favourite, even after her ill-fated performances at these Games, but for the third time here had the letters DNF - Did Not Finish -- next to her name. ALSO READ: Beijing Winter Olympics: Sweden's Sandra Naeslund wins women's ski cross final, takes home gold She was well placed as fifth fastest after the morning's downhill leg but, returning to the Ice River course where she had skied out in both the giant slalom and slalom, Shiffrin missed a gate and incredibly skied off the course yet again. "I didn’t make it to the finish again, and like 60 percent of my DNF rate has happened at this Olympic Games," said the American who came into the Games as the star of the sport and the great American medal hope. "I didn’t feel pressure there. I mean there is always pressure but I just felt loose and relaxed and like I knew my plan, focused and good skiing - I was doing it and it still didn’t work. That is what it is," she said. The six-times world champion has had 47 World Cup victories in slalom but that experience has counted for precious little in Beijing. ALSO READ: Beijing Winter Olympics: Canada reclaims gold medal, U.S. settles for silver in ice hockey "47 different times I had this feeling - the right balance of intensity, focus, the feeling I had on my skis - it always worked. "It was always good, fast skiing but I never had an issue not finishing and especially not that early. So it is just a little bit of a mind-boggling event I guess". Shiffrin won gold in giant slalom at Pyeongchang 2018 after winning the slalom title at Sochi 2014. She also claimed the silver medal in the combined four years ago. BELOW EXPECTATIONS The 26-year-old has competed in every individual event in Beijing but her results have been way below all expectations. She was only able to complete the speed events, finishing ninth in the super-G and 18th in the downhill. But while Americans scratch their heads over Shiffrin's sudden loss of form, the Swiss are basking in their domination of the sport. ALSO READ: Kamila Valieva receives loud cheers, breaks down after returning to action for 1st time since doping scandal Gisin's victory produced the fifth gold for the Swiss team at these Games and the second medal for both Gisin and Holdener. "Four years ago I did it with my downhill and this time I did it with my slalom. It's a pity that Mikaela did not finish, I would love to have battled for gold with her," said Gisin "I didn't think I could put a slalom run together like this after these three weeks, it was so intense." Three of the Swiss Alpine team's golds have been for women and the country's Alpine medal tally in Beijing stands at nine in total, including a bronze in super-G for Gisin while Holdener finished third in slalom. The pair had both medalled in the combined in Pyeongchang with Holdener taking bronze as Gisin triumphed. ALSO READ: American sprinter Richardson's case 'different' from Kamila Valieva's: International Olympic Committee Czech Ester Ledecka finished fourth, narrowly missing out on an Alpine medal to go with her snowboard gold in the parallel giant slalom. Four years ago, Ledecka made history when she became the first athlete to win gold in both her snowboard event and Alpine, where she won in super-G.

Beijing Olympics: Swiss skier Michelle Gisin retains gold as Mikaela Shiffrin fails again in Alpine skiing

Voters in Switzerland have overwhelmingly rejected the ban on animal testing. Only about 20.9% of voters said yes to the ban in a referendum.

Medical experiments on Animals: Voters in Switzerland overwhelmingly reject ban on animal testing

The Swiss tobacco industry employs at least 11,000 people. However, 56% of people in Switzerland have voted to ban Tobacco advertisements.

56% of people in Switzerland vote to ban Tobacco advertisements

&nbsp;The images are jarring to visitors: happy, glamorous couples smoking together in a cafe, packs of cigarettes opened invitingly, rugged Western landscapes that evoke the Marlboro Man.

While many countries have long banned cigarette advertising, it has lived on in Switzerland, where loose regulations on the sale and marketing of tobacco products make the country an outlier in much of the Western world. The ads adorn billboards on city streets, are shown in movie theaters, and are ubiquitous at sports and cultural events like Montreux’s famed jazz festival.

But this weekend, much of that may start to fade away as Swiss voters decide whether to place restrictions on tobacco ads that would effectively ban them in public spaces.

The initiative, which is expected to pass in a referendum, according to polls conducted by Swiss media outlets, has been endorsed by health advocates who cite findings by bodies like the World Health Organization that the ads encourage young people to smoke and make it harder for smokers to quit.

“We want to protect young people and ensure tobacco prevention efforts are not undermined through advertising,” said Hans Stöckli, who is president of the committee behind the initiative.

The initiative has unsurprisingly been opposed by the tobacco industry, but also by the government, which has maintained unfashionably friendly relationships with tobacco companies that have set up regional and even global headquarters in Switzerland. A majority of members of Parliament have also come out against it. Many of them say jobs will be lost if the referendum passes, since cigarettes rank with chocolate and cheese as some of the country’s leading exports.

If voters approve the initiative, advertising for tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, would no longer be allowed in places or on websites that are accessible to those under 18.

Even though it would not be a blanket ban, it would nonetheless represent a significant change. Switzerland is one of the few places in Europe that has not introduced a nationwide ban on the sale of tobacco-related products to minors. Although some parts of the country ban sales to children under the ages of 18 or 16, others have no minimum age, and in many places young people can be seen puffing away in public.

Switzerland has been unable to ratify the WHO’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, despite signing it in 2004, because of its insufficient restrictions on sponsorship and advertising. The United States has also not ratified the convention.

Stöckli said that even if voters approve the new legislation, Switzerland would still lag behind other countries on regulating tobacco. He said advocates had focused on protecting children and young people, instead of a blanket ban, to improve the chances of the law passing.

“It was a compromise,” he said, adding that he would keep pushing for tighter regulations and higher taxes on tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, which contain nicotine extracted from tobacco.

Switzerland has long courted multinational tobacco companies. Philip Morris and Japan Tobacco International have their international headquarters in the country, and British American Tobacco also has a strong presence. The sector employs about 4,500 people in Switzerland, according to the government, including in the production of high-tar cigarettes that are illegal to produce or sell in the European Union.

The referendum Sunday came out of a 2015 proposal by the Federal Council, Switzerland’s executive branch, for a Tobacco Products Act that would ban the sale of tobacco to minors nationwide and restrict advertising. Parliament eventually approved an amended bill that would leave most advertising intact.

In response to the weakening of the legislation, a group made up of more than 40 health organizations launched an initiative to make it tougher, and assembled the necessary signatures needed to put it to the voters.

If Swiss voters reject the initiative Sunday, the amended bill will come into effect without the broad restrictions on ads.

The initiative also includes restrictions on offering discounted or free tobacco products and on industry sponsorship of events that are accessible to minors.

Despite strong support from civil society organizations, the initiative has faced a lot of opposition from politicians in Switzerland.

Mike Egger, a member of the Swiss People’s Party and co-president of a group formed to encourage people to reject the initiative, said the proposed advertising restrictions were against Switzerland’s liberal values.

“The initiative calls for a ban on advertising a legal product,” he said.

Egger said that the harmful effects of smoking were well known in Switzerland, and that tobacco packaging already included warnings. Cigarette packs carry both written warnings and the gruesome pictures of diseased body parts that have become common in many countries.

“I trust that citizens can themselves decide whether they want to consume tobacco products or not, and there is no need for a superstate that regulates the sector more strongly,” he said.

Anti-smoking advocates have also accused the Federal Council of cozying up to the tobacco industry. They pointed to a statement in which the council said that the initiative was welcome from a public health perspective, but that it “had to weigh the public health interests against those of the economy” and supported limiting “advertising to an extent that is acceptable to the tobacco industry.”

In the statement, the council acknowledged that almost half of smokers started the habit as a minor, and that tobacco use was responsible for around 15% of the nation’s deaths.

Pascal Diethelm, an anti-tobacco campaigner and a proponent of the initiative, said the declaration by the Federal Council was shocking.

“This is smoking-gun proof that the government has put the tobacco control policy, which is a public health policy, under the tutelage of the tobacco industry,” he said.

“I don’t see any other country in the world which has done that,” said Diethelm, pointing to the council’s rejection of the initiative despite its acknowledgment that an advertising ban would not only benefit children, but also adults, and reduce the high costs associated with smoking.

Martin Kuonen, director of Swiss Cigarette, an association that includes Philip Morris, Japan Tobacco and British American Tobacco, said the tobacco industry was “fully in favor of the protection of minors” and agreed with the idea of setting a minimum age for buying its products.

But Kuonen said the tougher legislation proposed by the initiative went too far. “It is a de facto advertising ban,” he said, because children can potentially be exposed to advertisements anywhere. He said the industry strongly opposed this, as “adults will indirectly also be affected.”

Kuonen said that if the public votes in favor of the initiative, the tobacco companies “will have to think twice about whether they want to continue investing in Switzerland.”

But Diethelm said he doubted the industry would seriously consider uprooting and moving elsewhere.

“Where should they go?” he said. “I don’t see any decently governed country that would want them.”

The images are jarring to visitors: happy, glamorous couples smoking together in a cafe, packs of cigarettes opened invitingly, rugged Western landscapes that evoke the Marlboro Man.

The images are jarring to visitors: happy, glamorous couples smoking together in a cafe, packs of cigarettes opened invitingly, rugged Western landscapes that evoke the Marlboro Man. While many countries have long banned cigarette advertising, it has lived on in Switzerland, where loose regulations on the sale and marketing of tobacco products make the country an outlier in much of the Western world. The ads adorn billboards on city streets, are shown in movie theaters, and are ubiquitous at sports and cultural events like Montreux’s famed jazz festival. But this weekend, much of that may start to fade away as Swiss voters decide whether to place restrictions on tobacco ads that would effectively ban them in public spaces. The initiative, which is expected to pass in a referendum, according to polls conducted by Swiss media outlets, has been endorsed by health advocates who cite findings by bodies like the World Health Organization that the ads encourage young people to smoke and make it harder for smokers to quit. “We want to protect young people and ensure tobacco prevention efforts are not undermined through advertising,” said Hans Stöckli, who is president of the committee behind the initiative. The initiative has unsurprisingly been opposed by the tobacco industry, but also by the government, which has maintained unfashionably friendly relationships with tobacco companies that have set up regional and even global headquarters in Switzerland. A majority of members of Parliament have also come out against it. Many of them say jobs will be lost if the referendum passes, since cigarettes rank with chocolate and cheese as some of the country’s leading exports. If voters approve the initiative, advertising for tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, would no longer be allowed in places or on websites that are accessible to those under 18. Even though it would not be a blanket ban, it would nonetheless represent a significant change. Switzerland is one of the few places in Europe that has not introduced a nationwide ban on the sale of tobacco-related products to minors. Although some parts of the country ban sales to children under the ages of 18 or 16, others have no minimum age, and in many places young people can be seen puffing away in public. Switzerland has been unable to ratify the WHO’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, despite signing it in 2004, because of its insufficient restrictions on sponsorship and advertising. The United States has also not ratified the convention. Stöckli said that even if voters approve the new legislation, Switzerland would still lag behind other countries on regulating tobacco. He said advocates had focused on protecting children and young people, instead of a blanket ban, to improve the chances of the law passing. “It was a compromise,” he said, adding that he would keep pushing for tighter regulations and higher taxes on tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, which contain nicotine extracted from tobacco. Switzerland has long courted multinational tobacco companies. Philip Morris and Japan Tobacco International have their international headquarters in the country, and British American Tobacco also has a strong presence. The sector employs about 4,500 people in Switzerland, according to the government, including in the production of high-tar cigarettes that are illegal to produce or sell in the European Union. The referendum Sunday came out of a 2015 proposal by the Federal Council, Switzerland’s executive branch, for a Tobacco Products Act that would ban the sale of tobacco to minors nationwide and restrict advertising. Parliament eventually approved an amended bill that would leave most advertising intact. In response to the weakening of the legislation, a group made up of more than 40 health organizations launched an initiative to make it tougher, and assembled the necessary signatures needed to put it to the voters. If Swiss voters reject the initiative Sunday, the amended bill will come into effect without the broad restrictions on ads. The initiative also includes restrictions on offering discounted or free tobacco products and on industry sponsorship of events that are accessible to minors. Despite strong support from civil society organizations, the initiative has faced a lot of opposition from politicians in Switzerland. Mike Egger, a member of the Swiss People’s Party and co-president of a group formed to encourage people to reject the initiative, said the proposed advertising restrictions were against Switzerland’s liberal values. “The initiative calls for a ban on advertising a legal product,” he said. Egger said that the harmful effects of smoking were well known in Switzerland, and that tobacco packaging already included warnings. Cigarette packs carry both written warnings and the gruesome pictures of diseased body parts that have become common in many countries. “I trust that citizens can themselves decide whether they want to consume tobacco products or not, and there is no need for a superstate that regulates the sector more strongly,” he said. Anti-smoking advocates have also accused the Federal Council of cozying up to the tobacco industry. They pointed to a statement in which the council said that the initiative was welcome from a public health perspective, but that it “had to weigh the public health interests against those of the economy” and supported limiting “advertising to an extent that is acceptable to the tobacco industry.” In the statement, the council acknowledged that almost half of smokers started the habit as a minor, and that tobacco use was responsible for around 15% of the nation’s deaths. Pascal Diethelm, an anti-tobacco campaigner and a proponent of the initiative, said the declaration by the Federal Council was shocking. “This is smoking-gun proof that the government has put the tobacco control policy, which is a public health policy, under the tutelage of the tobacco industry,” he said. “I don’t see any other country in the world which has done that,” said Diethelm, pointing to the council’s rejection of the initiative despite its acknowledgment that an advertising ban would not only benefit children, but also adults, and reduce the high costs associated with smoking. Martin Kuonen, director of Swiss Cigarette, an association that includes Philip Morris, Japan Tobacco and British American Tobacco, said the tobacco industry was “fully in favor of the protection of minors” and agreed with the idea of setting a minimum age for buying its products. But Kuonen said the tougher legislation proposed by the initiative went too far. “It is a de facto advertising ban,” he said, because children can potentially be exposed to advertisements anywhere. He said the industry strongly opposed this, as “adults will indirectly also be affected.” Kuonen said that if the public votes in favor of the initiative, the tobacco companies “will have to think twice about whether they want to continue investing in Switzerland.” But Diethelm said he doubted the industry would seriously consider uprooting and moving elsewhere. “Where should they go?” he said. “I don’t see any decently governed country that would want them.”

Switzerland, long a safe haven for tobacco ads, weighs a ban

A region in Switzerland will vote on Sunday whether non-human primates should be accorded some of the fundamental rights that are enjoyed by humans.

The northern province of Basel-Stadt will decide whether to amend its constitution so that the primates can enjoy the ‘right to life’ and “mental and physical integrity” under the region’s law.

The referendum has been piloted by the animal rights group, Sentience, under Switzerland’s direct democracy system.

The plea has gathered over 100,000 signatures, following which it would be put for a popular vote. The referendum is slated to begin on February 13, 2022.

Once the quota was reached, local media reports stated that the city authorities immediately appealed to Switzerland’s Supreme Court to stop the referendum, saying that it went against federal law.

But the complaint was dismissed in 2020 on the basis that cantons in Switzerland are allowed to go further in their protection than federal law does.

“This will mark the first time worldwide that people can vote on fundamental rights for non-human animals,” AFP quoted the group as saying.

Basel-based Sentience says primates are highly intelligent and maintain an active social life, and feel pain, grief and compassion.

However, they cannot defend themselves against interventions in their lives — so humans need to take responsibility and grant them rights, says Sentience’s website.

Basel-Stadt is known to host one of the best zoos in Europe. The group says some 150 primates live in the canton, which borders France and Germany.

(With inputs from agencies)

A region in Switzerland will vote on Sunday whether non-human primates should be accorded some of the fundamental rights that are enjoyed by humans. The northern province of Basel-Stadt will decide whether to amend its constitution so that the primates can enjoy the ‘right to life’ and “mental and physical integrity” under the region’s law.

A region in Switzerland will vote on Sunday whether non-human primates should be accorded some of the fundamental rights that are enjoyed by humans. The northern province of Basel-Stadt will decide whether to amend its constitution so that the primates can enjoy the ‘right to life’ and “mental and physical integrity” under the region’s law. The referendum has been piloted by the animal rights group, Sentience, under Switzerland’s direct democracy system. The plea has gathered over 100,000 signatures, following which it would be put for a popular vote. The referendum is slated to begin on February 13, 2022. Once the quota was reached, local media reports stated that the city authorities immediately appealed to Switzerland’s Supreme Court to stop the referendum, saying that it went against federal law. But the complaint was dismissed in 2020 on the basis that cantons in Switzerland are allowed to go further in their protection than federal law does. “This will mark the first time worldwide that people can vote on fundamental rights for non-human animals,” AFP quoted the group as saying. Basel-based Sentience says primates are highly intelligent and maintain an active social life, and feel pain, grief and compassion. However, they cannot defend themselves against interventions in their lives — so humans need to take responsibility and grant them rights, says Sentience’s website. Basel-Stadt is known to host one of the best zoos in Europe. The group says some 150 primates live in the canton, which borders France and Germany. (With inputs from agencies)

This Swizz region is trying to pass law for primates to enjoy 'human' rights

India's leading two-wheeler manufacturer TVS Motor has bought Switzerland’s largest electric bike company Swiss e-Mobility Group (SEMG); it is Switzerland’s largest electric bike company.

TVS acquires 75% in Swiss e-bike player

Although most people are aware of the saying "time is money," few consider it to be a legitimate substitute for cash, and even fewer have utilised it as such.

While time used to be donated on a voluntary basis or as part of a mutual support agreement among neighbours or friends, technology has made time banking a reality.

For the first time, a huge number of individuals can track their time accurately and quickly, turning it into a money that can be banked and exchanged for desired goods and services.&nbsp;

Swiss citizens can save their time and put it to better use later by depositing it in banks.The Swiss Ministry of Health created the Time Bank concept as an old-age assistance programme.

Under the 'time bank' scheme, people save time and volunteer to look after the elderly who require assistance and the number of hours they spend with or caring for seniors is deposited in their individual social security account.

When the volunteer reaches the age when he or she wants support.He or she can take advantage of the "time bank."

He or she will be looked after by a volunteer.

In 2018, a panel of the National Human Rights Commission recommended that India adopt the "time bank" scheme.&nbsp; 
 
Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/swiss-citizens-can-now-deposit-their-time-in-bank-heres-how-442313/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

What is the scheme?

Time Bank is a barter system that allows people to "deposit" and "withdraw" their time based on their abilities and needs.

This ideology is both basic and noble in its vision, and it is founded on altruistic principles that date back to a simpler era.&nbsp;

How does it work?

The concept of time banking is straightforward.A time-based service is provided by one individual or entity to another entity.

This service could include IT services, consultations, babysitting, hairdressing, gardening, construction, tutoring, or any other time-consuming job.

A time bank is used to track the amount of time spent providing the service.

When time-based units collect in the time bank, they can be used to buy time-based services from other people.&nbsp;

Which countries have begun to implement this system?

Aside from Switzerland, the UK has adopted the 'time bank' plan, and Singapore is considering doing likewise.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Although most people are aware of the saying "time is money," few consider it to be a legitimate substitute for cash, and even fewer have utilised it as such. While time used to be donated on a voluntary basis or as part of a mutual support agreement among neighbours or friends, technology has made time banking a reality.

Although most people are aware of the saying "time is money," few consider it to be a legitimate substitute for cash, and even fewer have utilised it as such. While time used to be donated on a voluntary basis or as part of a mutual support agreement among neighbours or friends, technology has made time banking a reality. For the first time, a huge number of individuals can track their time accurately and quickly, turning it into a money that can be banked and exchanged for desired goods and services. Swiss citizens can save their time and put it to better use later by depositing it in banks.The Swiss Ministry of Health created the Time Bank concept as an old-age assistance programme. Under the 'time bank' scheme, people save time and volunteer to look after the elderly who require assistance and the number of hours they spend with or caring for seniors is deposited in their individual social security account. When the volunteer reaches the age when he or she wants support.He or she can take advantage of the "time bank." He or she will be looked after by a volunteer. In 2018, a panel of the National Human Rights Commission recommended that India adopt the "time bank" scheme. Watch | What is the scheme? Time Bank is a barter system that allows people to "deposit" and "withdraw" their time based on their abilities and needs. This ideology is both basic and noble in its vision, and it is founded on altruistic principles that date back to a simpler era. How does it work? The concept of time banking is straightforward.A time-based service is provided by one individual or entity to another entity. This service could include IT services, consultations, babysitting, hairdressing, gardening, construction, tutoring, or any other time-consuming job. A time bank is used to track the amount of time spent providing the service. When time-based units collect in the time bank, they can be used to buy time-based services from other people. Which countries have begun to implement this system? Aside from Switzerland, the UK has adopted the 'time bank' plan, and Singapore is considering doing likewise. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | 'Time is money': People in Switzerland can actually deposit their time in banks

People in Switzerland will be able to legally change gender by a visit to the civil registry office from January&nbsp;1, putting the country at the forefront of Europe's gender self-identification movement.

Switzerland joins Ireland, Belgium, Portugal and Norway as one of the few countries on the continent that allow a person to legally change gender without hormone therapy, medical diagnosis or further evaluation or bureaucratic steps.

Under the new rules written into Switzerland's civil code, anyone aged 16 and above who is not under legal guardianship will be able to adjust their gender and legal name by self-declaration at the civil registry office. Younger people and those under adult protection will require guardian consent.

This marks a change from the current set of regionally prescribed standards in Switzerland, which often require a certificate from a medical professional confirming an individual's transgender identity.

Some cantons - semi-autonomous regions in federal Switzerland - also require a person to undergo hormone treatment or anatomical transition in order to legally change gender, while, for a name change, proof could be required that the new name has already been unofficially in use for several years.

Switzerland, long known as socially conservative in the main, voted in September to legalise civil marriage.&nbsp;

With the new gender change rules, Switzerland joins just two dozen countries worldwide aiming to decouple gender choice from medical procedures.

While some other European nations including Denmark, Greece and France have removed the requirement of medical procedures, including sex reassignment surgery, sterilisation or psychiatric evaluation, their rules require further steps or conditions.

People in Switzerland will be able to legally change gender by a visit to the civil registry office from January 1, putting the country at the forefront of Europe's gender self-identification movement.

People in Switzerland will be able to legally change gender by a visit to the civil registry office from January 1, putting the country at the forefront of Europe's gender self-identification movement. Switzerland joins Ireland, Belgium, Portugal and Norway as one of the few countries on the continent that allow a person to legally change gender without hormone therapy, medical diagnosis or further evaluation or bureaucratic steps. Under the new rules written into Switzerland's civil code, anyone aged 16 and above who is not under legal guardianship will be able to adjust their gender and legal name by self-declaration at the civil registry office. Younger people and those under adult protection will require guardian consent. This marks a change from the current set of regionally prescribed standards in Switzerland, which often require a certificate from a medical professional confirming an individual's transgender identity. Some cantons - semi-autonomous regions in federal Switzerland - also require a person to undergo hormone treatment or anatomical transition in order to legally change gender, while, for a name change, proof could be required that the new name has already been unofficially in use for several years. Switzerland, long known as socially conservative in the main, voted in September to legalise civil marriage. With the new gender change rules, Switzerland joins just two dozen countries worldwide aiming to decouple gender choice from medical procedures. While some other European nations including Denmark, Greece and France have removed the requirement of medical procedures, including sex reassignment surgery, sterilisation or psychiatric evaluation, their rules require further steps or conditions.

Switzerland simplifies legal gender transition

An ice cave formed naturally on a high-altitude glacier in the Swiss Alps delighted nature lovers and photographers.

Bluish cave formed naturally in Switzerland | Glacier

WION brings you a quick round-up of all latest news on surge of coronavirus pandemic across the world, stay tuned for all latest developments.

Covid News | Switzerland tightens covid curbs, Denmark imposes new restrictions and more

A science exhibition seems to be breaking stereotypes in Switzerland. It seems to be spreading the word that gender diversity and homosexuality are not immoral or unnatural, as per a media report. &nbsp;

The 'Queer — Diversity is in our nature' exhibition, which is being held till March 2023, at the Bern Museum in Switzerland's capital, is encouraging tolerance and openness. &nbsp;

This exhibition looks to show the diversity of gender and sexual orientation within humans and other animals, the report said on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-extremely-rare-deep-sea-sighting-of-giant-phantom-jellyfish-with-bizarre-ribbon-like-mouth-arms-436003" hreflang="en">Watch: Extremely rare deep-sea sighting of giant phantom jellyfish, with bizarre ribbon-like mouth arms</a>

The exhibition displays biological studies to confront contemporary debates on homosexuality to bridge nature with society. It also includes the finding that same-sex relationships have been witnessed in over 1,500 species. &nbsp;

Christian Kropf, biologist, University of Bern's Institute of Ecology and Evolution and scientific curator of the exhibition, said that same-sex relationships are an everyday occurrence in nature. They also generate social cohesion. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/faster-than-usain-bolt-study-reveals-theropod-dinosaurs-could-run-really-fast-435905" hreflang="en">Faster than Usain Bolt? Study reveals Theropod dinosaurs could run really fast</a>

"Many people think that homosexuality and being queer are marginal and perverse phenomena. They say they are unnatural. But this is nonsense!" Kropf said. &nbsp;

European rams and male bottlenose dolphins are best examples of species, who are capable of forming lasting same-sex relationships, Kropf added. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A science exhibition seems to be breaking stereotypes in Switzerland. It seems to be spreading the word that gender diversity and homosexuality are not immoral or unnatural, as per a media report.

A science exhibition seems to be breaking stereotypes in Switzerland. It seems to be spreading the word that gender diversity and homosexuality are not immoral or unnatural, as per a media report. The 'Queer — Diversity is in our nature' exhibition, which is being held till March 2023, at the Bern Museum in Switzerland's capital, is encouraging tolerance and openness. This exhibition looks to show the diversity of gender and sexual orientation within humans and other animals, the report said on Friday. Also Read: Watch: Extremely rare deep-sea sighting of giant phantom jellyfish, with bizarre ribbon-like mouth arms The exhibition displays biological studies to confront contemporary debates on homosexuality to bridge nature with society. It also includes the finding that same-sex relationships have been witnessed in over 1,500 species. Christian Kropf, biologist, University of Bern's Institute of Ecology and Evolution and scientific curator of the exhibition, said that same-sex relationships are an everyday occurrence in nature. They also generate social cohesion. Also Read: Faster than Usain Bolt? Study reveals Theropod dinosaurs could run really fast "Many people think that homosexuality and being queer are marginal and perverse phenomena. They say they are unnatural. But this is nonsense!" Kropf said. European rams and male bottlenose dolphins are best examples of species, who are capable of forming lasting same-sex relationships, Kropf added. (With inputs from agencies)

Science exhibition fights humans’ 'unnatural' homophobia in Switzerland

Switzerland has legalised a 'Suicide Machine'. The device promises a 'painless death' within a minute. Assisted Suicide has been legal in the country since 1942. The 'Sarco Pod' is aimed at making the process easier. Palki Sharma has a report.

Gravitas: This 'Suicide Pod' ensures 'painless death' in a minute

Switzerland has legalised a 'Suicide Machine'. The device promises a 'painless death' within a minute. Assisted Suicide has been legal in the country since 1942, the 'Sarco Pod' is aimed at making the process easier.

Switzerland: 'Sarco Pod'- A device to make suicide 'painless'

The impact of food waste on climate emission is an increasing concern for many especially ahead of the COP26 summit in Glasgow. In Switzerland, a community association is linking orchards, volunteers to ensure that more apples find their way into the food chain.

Community in Switzerland harvest unpicked apples as food waste affects climate change

The impact of food waste on climate emissions is an increasing concern for many ahead of COP26. In Switzerland, a community association is linking orchards, volunteers and fruit presses, to ensure many more apples find their way into the food chain.

Volunteers help harvest to avoid food waste in Switzerland

Thousands came together in the streets on Bern to protest the introduction of Covid certificates that are being rolled out to curb the spread of virus.

Massive crowds flooded the capital city of Switzerland expressing anger over the measures adopted by authorities to curb spread of Covid.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wuhan-marathon-postponed-as-covid-19-cases-surge-in-china-423521">Wuhan marathon postponed as COVID-19 cases surge in China</a>

Since September 13, Covid certificates that prove that the individual has been vaccinated, or proof that the person has recovered from Covid or a negative PCR test have been made compulsory to gain access to any public space.

Locals dressed in costumes and gathered on streets to ask the government to rollback the Covid certificates. The protestors claimed the community should be able to follow the traditional Swiss values.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🇨🇭 Switzerland - Bern [Oct 23, 2021] 
 
Massive protest in the capital city of Switzerland against the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GreenPass?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GreenPass</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Freiheit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Freiheit</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoGreenPass?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoGreenPass</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bern2310?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bern2310</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bern?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bern</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoVaccinePassports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoVaccinePassports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnoughIsEnough?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnoughIsEnough</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NonAuPassSanitaire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NonAuPassSanitaire</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Zertifikat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Zertifikat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Demo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Demo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/vaccinatieplicht?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#vaccinatieplicht</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GeenQR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GeenQR</a> <a href="https://t.co/FdbPG4hvgM">pic.twitter.com/FdbPG4hvgM</a>
— 🍌 BMedia 🇳🇱 (@BananaMediaQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/BananaMediaQ/status/1451887225122209797?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Unlike earlier protests, this demonstration was completely peaceful and non-violent. The protest was approved by the local authorities. Even though authorities were present at the streets, the demonstrators expressed their anger in form of slogans and chants.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-highest-covid-cases-on-saturday-since-mid-may-423440">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-highest-covid-cases-on-saturday-since-mid-may-423440/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Local media claimed that the authorities had allowed the demonstrators to gather to make sure that the protest don’t get violent.

Early in&nbsp;October, police and demonstrators had clashed violently. Local police officers have had deploy water cannons to disperse several unauthorised protests.

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Grande manifestation contre le pass sanitaire devant le Palais Fédéral à Berne en Suisse alors que le peuple suisse doit se prononcer par référendum le 28 novembre sur l'avenir de la Loi covid-19. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bern2310?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bern2310</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/manifs23octobre?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#manifs23octobre</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoGreenPass?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoGreenPass</a> <a href="https://t.co/BPTIyYjk3X">pic.twitter.com/BPTIyYjk3X</a>
— Anonyme Citoyen (@AnonymeCitoyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnonymeCitoyen/status/1451937850115637255?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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You would think the media would cover three months of protests in Switzerland against COVID law but no. 
 
Bern, Switzerland today <a href="https://t.co/4QqCtCCsJH">pic.twitter.com/4QqCtCCsJH</a>
— Aaron Ginn (@aginnt) <a href="https://twitter.com/aginnt/status/1451958885686808578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The protests are happening a few days before the citizens will get a chance to vote in favour of or against the controversial Covid certificates.

Switzerland has been able to control the spread of the deadly coronavirus, but the government wants to ensure that more people get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Thousands came together in the streets on Bern to protest the introduction of Covid certificates that are being rolled out to curb the spread of virus. Massive crowds flooded the capital city of Switzerland expressing anger over the measures adopted by authorities to curb spread of Covid.

Thousands came together in the streets on Bern to protest the introduction of Covid certificates that are being rolled out to curb the spread of virus. Massive crowds flooded the capital city of Switzerland expressing anger over the measures adopted by authorities to curb spread of Covid. Also read | Wuhan marathon postponed as COVID-19 cases surge in China Since September 13, Covid certificates that prove that the individual has been vaccinated, or proof that the person has recovered from Covid or a negative PCR test have been made compulsory to gain access to any public space. Locals dressed in costumes and gathered on streets to ask the government to rollback the Covid certificates. The protestors claimed the community should be able to follow the traditional Swiss values. 🇨🇭 Switzerland - Bern [Oct 23, 2021] Massive protest in the capital city of Switzerland against the #GreenPass. #Freiheit #NoGreenPass #bern2310 #Bern #NoVaccinePassports #EnoughIsEnough #NonAuPassSanitaire #Zertifikat #Demo #vaccinatieplicht #GeenQR pic.twitter.com/FdbPG4hvgM — 🍌 BMedia 🇳🇱 (@BananaMediaQ) October 23, 2021 × Unlike earlier protests, this demonstration was completely peaceful and non-violent. The protest was approved by the local authorities. Even though authorities were present at the streets, the demonstrators expressed their anger in form of slogans and chants. WATCH | Local media claimed that the authorities had allowed the demonstrators to gather to make sure that the protest don’t get violent. Early in October, police and demonstrators had clashed violently. Local police officers have had deploy water cannons to disperse several unauthorised protests. Grande manifestation contre le pass sanitaire devant le Palais Fédéral à Berne en Suisse alors que le peuple suisse doit se prononcer par référendum le 28 novembre sur l'avenir de la Loi covid-19. #Bern2310 #manifs23octobre #NoGreenPass pic.twitter.com/BPTIyYjk3X — Anonyme Citoyen (@AnonymeCitoyen) October 23, 2021 × You would think the media would cover three months of protests in Switzerland against COVID law but no. Bern, Switzerland today pic.twitter.com/4QqCtCCsJH — Aaron Ginn (@aginnt) October 23, 2021 × The protests are happening a few days before the citizens will get a chance to vote in favour of or against the controversial Covid certificates. Switzerland has been able to control the spread of the deadly coronavirus, but the government wants to ensure that more people get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Watch: Thousands of Swiss locals protest against Covid vaccine certificates

The Indian government has received the third set of Swiss bank account information from Switzerland.

This was done, as part of an annual exercise, under which the European nation shared details of nearly 33 lakh financial accounts with 96 nations.

On the condition of anonymity, officials revealed that the details relate mostly to businessmen, including NRI's now settled in several South-East Asian countries as well as in the US, the UK and even some African and South American countries.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pandora-papers-leak-anil-ambani-sachin-tendulkar-jackie-shroff-named-check-list-of-other-high-profile-indian-names-418066">Pandora papers leak: Anil Ambani, Sachin Tendulkar, Jackie Shroff named, check list of other high-profile Indian names</a>

The Indian authorities were provided with information regarding many individuals and companies with accounts in Swiss financial institutions.

According to experts, the Automatic Exchange Of Information (AEOI) data received by India has been quite useful for establishing a strong prosecution case against those who have any unaccounted wealth, as it provides entire details of deposits and transfers as well as of all earnings, including through investments in securities and other assets.

The exchanged details include identification, account and financial information, including name, address, country of residence and tax identification number, as well as information concerning the reporting financial institution, account balance and capital income.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pandora-papers-largest-leak-of-offshore-data-in-history-explained-417996">Pandora Papers: Largest leak of offshore data in history explained</a>

Tax authorities use the exchanged information to verify whether taxpayers have correctly reported their financial accounts on their tax returns.

While the information about contributions to non-profit organisations and other such foundations, as also details on investments in digital currencies still remain out of bounds from the AEOI framework; for the first time this year, Switzerland has also agreed to share information about foreigners' real estate holdings there.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/switzerland-to-share-information-on-real-estate-assets-owned-by-indian-nationals-412701">Switzerland to share information on real estate assets owned by Indian nationals</a>

This is seen as a major milestone in the Indian government's fight against black money allegedly stashed abroad, as authorities will now be able to investigate tax liabilities as well as earnings associated with flats, apartments, condos, etc. owned by Indians in Switzerland.

Swiss Federal Tax Administration (FTA) also reported on Monday that 10 more countries - Antigua and Barbuda, Azerbaijan, Dominica, Ghana, Lebanon, Macau, Pakistan, Qatar, Samoa and Vanuatu, were involved in the exchange of information this year.

Watch | In 2015, Swiss bank released list of dormant A/Cs, mostly A/Cs linked to the Indians

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/in-2015-swiss-bank-released-list-of-dormant-acs-mostly-acs-linked-to-the-indians-261221/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The exchange took place last month and the next set of information would be shared by Switzerland in September 2022.

With this, Switzerland is seeking to reposition itself as a key global financial centre while dispelling the long-standing perception that the Swiss banking system is a safe haven for large amounts of black money.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian government has received the third set of Swiss bank account information from Switzerland. This was done, as part of an annual exercise, under which the European nation shared details of nearly 33 lakh financial accounts with 96 nations.

The Indian government has received the third set of Swiss bank account information from Switzerland. This was done, as part of an annual exercise, under which the European nation shared details of nearly 33 lakh financial accounts with 96 nations. On the condition of anonymity, officials revealed that the details relate mostly to businessmen, including NRI's now settled in several South-East Asian countries as well as in the US, the UK and even some African and South American countries. Also read | Pandora papers leak: Anil Ambani, Sachin Tendulkar, Jackie Shroff named, check list of other high-profile Indian names The Indian authorities were provided with information regarding many individuals and companies with accounts in Swiss financial institutions. According to experts, the Automatic Exchange Of Information (AEOI) data received by India has been quite useful for establishing a strong prosecution case against those who have any unaccounted wealth, as it provides entire details of deposits and transfers as well as of all earnings, including through investments in securities and other assets. The exchanged details include identification, account and financial information, including name, address, country of residence and tax identification number, as well as information concerning the reporting financial institution, account balance and capital income. Also Read | Pandora Papers: Largest leak of offshore data in history explained Tax authorities use the exchanged information to verify whether taxpayers have correctly reported their financial accounts on their tax returns. While the information about contributions to non-profit organisations and other such foundations, as also details on investments in digital currencies still remain out of bounds from the AEOI framework; for the first time this year, Switzerland has also agreed to share information about foreigners' real estate holdings there. Also read | Switzerland to share information on real estate assets owned by Indian nationals This is seen as a major milestone in the Indian government's fight against black money allegedly stashed abroad, as authorities will now be able to investigate tax liabilities as well as earnings associated with flats, apartments, condos, etc. owned by Indians in Switzerland. Swiss Federal Tax Administration (FTA) also reported on Monday that 10 more countries - Antigua and Barbuda, Azerbaijan, Dominica, Ghana, Lebanon, Macau, Pakistan, Qatar, Samoa and Vanuatu, were involved in the exchange of information this year. Watch | In 2015, Swiss bank released list of dormant A/Cs, mostly A/Cs linked to the Indians The exchange took place last month and the next set of information would be shared by Switzerland in September 2022. With this, Switzerland is seeking to reposition itself as a key global financial centre while dispelling the long-standing perception that the Swiss banking system is a safe haven for large amounts of black money. (With inputs from agencies)

India gets third set of Swiss bank details; mostly businessmen, NRIs

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