Switzerland's independence and neutrality have long been honored by the major European powers, and Switzerland was not involved in either of the two World Wars. The political and economic integration of Europe over the past half century, as well as Switzerland's role in many UN and international organizations, has strengthened Switzerland's ties with its neighbors.However, the country did not officially become a UN member until 2002.

PEOPLE

Population: 7.5 million (July 2004).

Population growth rate: 0.54 % (2004).

Life expectancy at birth: 80.3 years.

Religions: Roman Catholic 46.1%, Protestant 40%, other 5%, none 8.9% (1990).

Ethnic groups: German 65%, French 18%, Italian 10%, Romansch 1%, other 6%.

Languages: German (official) 63.7%, French (official) 19.2%, Italian (official) 7.6%, Romansch (official) 0.6%, other 8.9%.

Nationality: Swiss.