🇨🇭 Switzerland’s Men’s Global Wellbeing Index in the world and how it’s ranked globally
Switzerland is often celebrated as one of the world’s most prosperous, stable, and high-quality-of-life nations. With stunning alpine landscapes, robust democracy, and a strong economy, it consistently ranks at the top of international livability charts. But how does Switzerland measure up when it comes to men’s wellbeing?
The Men’s Global Wellbeing Index (MGWI) offers a unique perspective on the male experience across ten key indicators: suicide, legal bias, homelessness, social bias, child custody, workplace fairness, freedom of expression, mental health access, violence against men, and loneliness. Switzerland’s overall MGWI score of 66/100 reflects a generally positive environment for men, but with notable challenges—particularly around social isolation and loneliness.
Suicide Rate: A Persistent Concern
Switzerland scores a 5 on suicide, reflecting a moderate but troubling reality. Male suicide rates remain higher than female rates, consistent with global patterns. In a country that prides itself on strong healthcare and social support systems, the persistence of suicide among men—especially younger men and middle-aged professionals—signals that cultural stigma and barriers to seeking help remain. Preventive efforts and targeted men’s mental health programs remain critical.
Legal Bias: Strong Protections
With a score of 2, Switzerland performs strongly in terms of legal fairness. Men generally benefit from a balanced legal system that upholds equality under the law. While some concerns linger in family law, such as custody arrangements during divorce, Switzerland’s legal framework is considered one of the most equitable globally. This low score indicates relatively minimal systemic legal bias compared to other nations.
Male Homelessness: Low but Not Invisible
Scoring just 2, Switzerland’s male homelessness rate is relatively low, reflecting the country’s high standard of living and strong social safety nets. However, homelessness among men does exist, particularly in urban centers like Zurich and Geneva. Migrant populations and men facing job loss or mental health struggles remain vulnerable. Despite strong welfare programs, housing affordability continues to be a challenge.
Social Bias and Workplace Fairness
Switzerland scores 2 for social bias and 3 for workplace fairness. Men in Switzerland face relatively little systemic social discrimination, and the country’s professional landscape remains favorable. That said, evolving conversations about gender roles and equality in the workplace have shifted dynamics, sometimes creating perceptions of new pressures on men. While Switzerland’s economy is robust, men in industries undergoing digital transformation or globalization may face added stress around job security and expectations.
Child Custody: Still a Sensitive Area
With a score of 3, child custody remains a mixed issue for men in Switzerland. While the legal framework is progressive and joint custody is increasingly recognized, practical challenges still arise in cases of divorce or separation. Some men report feeling disadvantaged in custody negotiations, though Switzerland performs better than many countries in this area.
Freedom of Expression: Stable and Resilient
Scoring a 2, Switzerland offers strong protections for freedom of speech, assembly, and expression. As one of the world’s most established democracies, it fosters open debate and public participation. For men, this means a stable platform to advocate for rights and wellbeing without fear of repression.
Mental Health Access: Moderate Progress
At 3, mental health access in Switzerland is decent but not perfect. While the country boasts high-quality healthcare infrastructure, cultural stigma around men seeking psychological help persists. Waiting times for certain services and affordability challenges may also prevent some men from getting timely support. Efforts to normalize male mental health care are ongoing but require continued investment.
Violence Against Men: Underreported Issues
With a score of 3, violence against men in Switzerland is lower than in many countries but still present. Domestic violence, street violence, and workplace harassment can impact men, though these issues are less frequently highlighted in public discourse. Underreporting remains a challenge, as men are often reluctant to present themselves as victims.
Loneliness: Switzerland’s Hidden Epidemic
Switzerland’s highest score is in loneliness (9), highlighting a serious and growing concern. Despite wealth and stability, many Swiss men report feelings of isolation, especially in urban areas. High living costs, demanding work schedules, and changing social dynamics contribute to disconnection. Older men and expats are particularly at risk, and this social epidemic has direct impacts on physical and mental health.
Switzerland’s MGWI Score in Global Context
With an overall score of 66/100, Switzerland ranks among the top countries in terms of men’s wellbeing. Strong legal protections, low homelessness, and robust freedoms make it an attractive place to live. Yet the high loneliness score pulls its overall performance down, showing that even in one of the world’s wealthiest nations, men struggle with isolation, purpose, and connection.
Driving Change in Switzerland
The MGWI underscores the importance of addressing the less visible aspects of men’s wellbeing. Tackling loneliness requires more than economic prosperity—it calls for community building, social support networks, and initiatives that encourage connection among men. By combining Switzerland’s strong institutional foundations with a renewed focus on social health, the country can continue to lead the world in quality of life.
Take Action
Supporting men’s wellbeing in Switzerland means more than recognizing the data—it means fostering connection, breaking down stigma around mental health, and ensuring that men’s voices are part of the national conversation. Whether through volunteering, advocacy, or simply starting conversations, every Swiss citizen can contribute to a healthier, more connected society.
📊 Switzerland MGWI Score: 66/100
Strengths: Legal fairness, low homelessness, free expression
Challenges: Suicide, mental health stigma, loneliness epidemic
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