The decision by the agency responsible for promoting the country’s image abroad: “At this time, we do not feel it is appropriate to highlight Swiss characteristics such as punctuality and reliability”

Following the tragedy in Crans-Montana, Switzerland has decided to cancel some of the events planned in Milan and Cortina, on the sidelines of the Winter Olympics. The Swiss have decided to keep a low profile after criticism emerged from Italy directed at local authorities and the judiciary regarding inadequate safety checks at Le Constellation, the nightclub where six Italian youths, among others, died, with others still hospitalized in serious condition.

“The context that has developed around Crans-Montana, the media coverage, and the political dimension it has taken on have prompted us to reassess everything and adjust the program,” Alexandre Edelmann, head of Presence Switzerland—the unit within the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs tasked with promoting the country’s image abroad—explained on Swiss radio. “We have made three decisions. Specifically, we decided to cancel two festive evenings that were to be hosted by Casa Svizzera in Milan, featuring electronic music and raclette—the so-called ‘electroclette’ events inspired by a festival in Valais. The Gala delle Alpi, scheduled for February 7 to celebrate Alpine culture and showcase local products, has also been canceled. “Highlighting Swiss characteristics such as punctuality and reliability is counterproductive today.”