Skilled talent love Zurich

Switzerland is regarded worldwide is the most attractive country for bright minds, coming in first place for the fifth consecutive year in the Global Talent Competitiveness Index. The study is compiled by the French business university Insead together with the recruitment agency Adecco and Tata Communications and published in the lead up to the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos.

According to an Adecco statement, Switzerland held on to its top position for three main reasons. First, it scored very well with its high quality of life, and the high salaries and career opportunities make it possible to keep skilled workers in the country. Second, its dual vocational and professional education and training system is a major strength. And third, it boasts a good regulatory, market and business landscape.  

Switzerland also ranks well with respect to international cooperation, where it came in fifth place. In terms of social mobility, Switzerland came in second place, largely because its residents can pursue a higher education or training irrespective of their economic status. However, Switzerland still needs to catch up with respect to the integration of minorities or equal rights for female workers.   

Singapore and the U.S. came in second and third place respectively, and the top ten was rounded off by European countries: Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, the UK, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.

This year’s index also took a closer look at cities, where the city of Zurich took first place as the most attractive city in the world for skilled talent. It scored highly for openness, business-government relations, and international relations.

“As a first-class business location in Europe and worldwide, Zurich clearly views diversity as a strength,” said Zurich’s mayor Corine Mauch. “The city of Zurich is ready to address upcoming challenges by developing strategies for integrating newcomers while at the same time empowering all residents.”