Gender equality in the canton of Schwyz: broad support, but clear need for action

A clear majority of the population in Schwyz considers gender equality to be highly important. 79 % regard it as important for societal development, and 71 % also for their personal lives. At the same time, seven out of ten people report having experienced situations in their daily lives that suggest gender equality has not yet been fully achieved. Women, in particular, perceive these shortcomings more frequently.

When looking at concrete areas for action, three priorities clearly emerge. Pay equality ranks first: around 70 % of the population see a need for improvement in this area. The reconciliation of family and work – especially with regard to childcare – as well as violence prevention are also frequently mentioned. By contrast, political equality, such as representation in public office, is considered urgent only by a minority.

There is also a broad consensus on the issue of family law. Around seven out of ten respondents see a need for action and perceive disadvantages affecting men. This finding shows that gender equality is not understood in a one-dimensional way by the population, but also includes areas in which structural disadvantages for men are perceived.

One in four respondents reports having experienced discrimination based on gender within the past twelve months. Among women, this share amounts to 35 %, compared with 15 % among men. Such experiences occur most frequently in professional contexts, but disadvantages are also felt in everyday life.

The need for action is particularly evident with regard to sexualised violence. 61 % of women aged 18 to 39 consider sexual harassment to be fairly or very widespread. Among young men, this figure is only 31 %. The most effective measures are seen as tougher penalties for perpetrators, combined with increased prevention, awareness-raising and improved support services for victims.

A cluster analysis identifies three main attitudes within the population of Schwyz. Around half belong to a group that strongly supports gender equality, while a further third are generally open to the issue. In contrast, a minority of 18 % attach little importance to gender equality and adhere more strongly to traditional role models. Overall, however, 82 % of the population identify concrete problem areas and acknowledge a need for action.