Ireland's relationship with Switzerland
From Hibernia to Helvetia – and hermitage to cultural heritage
While formal diplomatic relations were established between Ireland and Switzerland in 1939, the relationship between our countries stretches much further back.
Our shared history dates to the 7th century when Irish monks first travelled to Switzerland, with the site of St. Gall’s hermitage later becoming the St. Gallen monastery, in what is now the modern-day city of the same name.
These monasteries were centres of knowledge and hives of economic activity. In the centuries since, Irish people have continued to travel to Switzerland to trade, to do business, to share ideas and to create lasting connections with their Swiss counterparts. One notable expatriate is James Joyce, author of literary classics such as Ulysses, who lived in Zurich for many years.
From Joyce to GAA – vibrant cultural and community groups
There is an active Irish community in Switzerland, with about 6,000 Irish citizens registered with the Swiss authorities, and there are a number of Irish groups and organisations active across the country.
The Basel Irish Club offers a focal point for the Irish community in the city, many of whom work in its impressive pharma industry. The Zurich James Joyce Foundation is a big draw for Irish and Joycean communities alike.
The Irish Business Network has chapters active across Switzerland, and is a great resource to connect and share knowledge between Irish people doing business across the country. The Geneva Irish Association organise fantastic events for the Irish community living in or near the international hotspot.
GAA clubs in Zurich, Basel, and the Swiss midlands provide a great outlet for the diaspora who are looking to keep their Gaelic football and hurling abilities sharp, and to many Swiss looking to pick up a new skill.
Small nations – shared principles
Switzerland and Ireland share many similar viewpoints on international relations, including the promotion of human rights, the rule of law and the importance of development aid. Both countries also maintain policies of military neutrality.
There is positive Swiss-Irish cooperation and useful knowledge sharing on issues of global importance at both bilateral and multilateral levels.
Trade relationship – a big plus
Ireland and Switzerland have an exceptionally strong, and growing, trade relationship. Switzerland is one of Ireland’s most significant trade partners, with two-way trade in goods and services between our countries totaling €25 billion per annum.
Switzerland is the 15th most important market for indigenous Irish exports, ahead of many larger countries. Irish state agencies – Tourism Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland and Bord Bia – all work closely with the Irish Embassy in Berne to support and further develop the Swiss-Irish trade relationship.