Bunker Culture: Switzerland’s Commitment to Citizen Safety

Switzerland’s commitment to citizen safety is enshrined in law, mandating bunker space for every resident. This unique legislation, implemented in 1962, makes Switzerland the only country with such a provision. The government established the Federal Civil Protection Office in 1963, driven by the need to address potential nuclear threats and the uncertainty of the Cold War. This office is responsible for enforcing the construction of civil defense shelters. The recent conflict in Ukraine has renewed global interest in Switzerland’s policies and bunker infrastructure, given the increased risk of widespread conflict in Europe. Over the years, Swiss companies have received requests from various figures for the construction or equipment of air raid shelters. In 2010, during the Libyan uprising, the Al-Jazeera TV channel documented a bunker in Colonel Gaddafi’s villa, equipped with a ventilation system provided by a Swiss company. Swiss companies are currently exporting their bunker-related materials globally.