The social protection system covers risks and needs related to unforeseeable life events. Social insurances, as well the public authorities, guarantee the majority of social benefits in Switzerland. In 2017, they totalled CHF 175 billion, equal to 26.1% of the GDP. Benefits related to old age and sickness/health care are the largest in monetary terms. The same holds true at European level.
What's new?
In focus
At a glance
| 2016 | 2017p | |
|---|---|---|
| Switzerland | 25.8% |
26.1% |
of which old age |
10.9% | 11.1% |
of which sickness/health care |
8.0% | 8.3% |
of which other risks or needs |
6.8% | 6.8% |
| EU-28 | 27.1% | ... |
of which old age |
10.9% |
... |
of which sickness/health care |
8.0% |
... |
of which other risks or needs |
8.2% |
... |
p provisional
Source: Eurostat - European system of integrated social protection statistics (ESSPROS) version 04.12.2018 & FSO - Total Social Security Accounts (TSSA), version 04.07.2019.
Further information
Statistical sources and concepts
Contact
Federal Statistical Office Section Social AnalysesEspace de l'Europe 10
CH-2010 Neuchâtel
Switzerland