Pope Leo XIV Returns to Tradition at Swiss Guard Ceremony Amidst Swiss Concerns and Dairy Industry Challenges
Pope Leo XIV made a historic visit to the Vatican City, attending the swearing-in ceremony of the Swiss Guards for the first time in 57 years. Meanwhile, the Swiss Jewish community remains anxious due to the anniversary of a Hamas attack and the ongoing Gaza war. In other news, IP Lait is supporting exports and reducing herds to stabilise milk prices.
The Pope's attendance at the ceremony was a significant event, marking a return to tradition. The Swiss Guard Association has plans to fundraise for the renovation of the Swiss Guard wardrobes in Vatican City.
In Switzerland, a contentious debate is underway regarding headscarves in schools. Some are pushing for stricter rules and bans on other religious symbols in the German-speaking region.
Back in the Vatican, the renovation of the Swiss Guards' barracks is facing delays and cost overruns, with expenses now nearing CHF70 million. Nine Swiss members of the Gaza flotilla have returned, describing their detention in Israel as 'inhumane'. Ten Swiss nationals remain detained in Israel, including former Geneva mayor Rémy Pagani. Swiss writer Vanni Bianconi has detailed his ill-treatment while in Israel. The Swiss foreign ministry has refused to intervene, emphasising individual responsibility.
The dairy industry is also facing challenges. IP Lait is supporting exports and reducing herds to maintain milk prices. Up to 25,000 cows in Switzerland may face slaughter due to US tariffs and reduced demand.
Pope Leo XIV's attendance at the Swiss Guard ceremony signals a return to tradition. The Swiss Jewish community remains concerned about the anniversary of the Hamas attack and the ongoing Gaza war. The debate on headscarves in schools continues, while the renovation of the Swiss Guards' barracks faces delays and cost overruns. The detention of Swiss nationals in Israel remains a pressing issue, with the Swiss foreign ministry declining to intervene. The dairy industry is also grappling with challenges, including potential cow culling due to US tariffs and reduced demand.
