Successful fireside chat in Einsiedeln on 28 January 2025

Fireside chat in Einsiedeln: Full house and lively debate on current topics
One week after our successful fireside chat at Zwei Raben with 120 guests, the echo of the evening remains vivid in the minds of the participants. Not only was a wide range of political opinions presented here, but there was also an important exchange on key topics that often remain hidden.

Moderated by Roland Bühlmann, the event brought together important voices such as SVP Councillor of States Pirmin Schwander, SP Cantonal Councillor Antoine Chaix and Josef Ender from the Action Alliance of the Original Cantons. At the beginning, a poster caught the eye: "See nothing, hear nothing, say nothing" - it was unmistakably clear that it was high time to tackle uncomfortable truths and enter into dialogue with one another.

Migration as a perennial issue
The discussion on migration took centre stage. Josef Ender expressed his clear opposition to the planned asylum centre in Buosingen and formulated his view directly: "We are constructing buildings for illegal migrants who should not be here." Pirmin Schwander echoed these concerns, but at the same time recognised that the issue of migration must be tackled globally. Antoine Chaix expanded on the topic by referring to environmental refugees, but emphasised the need for successful integration.

EU and sovereignty - a delicate balance
The challenges posed by the EU and the dangers of supranational organisations such as the WHO were also addressed. Schwander and Ender expressed their scepticism towards the "dictates" of Brussels, while Chaix tried to highlight the positive aspects of the EU and emphasised the role of the WHO in the redistribution of aid resources.

Corona policy in retrospect
The wounds of coronavirus policy remain unhealed. "Was it really so easy to accept the lockdown and compulsory vaccination?" Schwander asked provocatively, which was met with great applause from the audience. Ender sympathised with this opinion and saw the decision at the time as a broken pact with the population.

Schwander also declared his willingness to participate in the coronavirus response and explained that it bothers him personally not to have been more active. "We must never accept something like this again! A review of the failed coronavirus policy is absolutely necessary!"

Concluding thoughts
Despite the different views, there was an urgent desire for transparency and recognition of past mistakes. The dialogue in Einsiedeln made it clear that exchange is essential. In times of polarisation, it remains crucial to discuss and listen to each other.