Description

This article is from the Switzerland FAQ, by Marc Schaefer schaefer@alphanet.ch with numerous contributions by others.

1.1 Original newsgroup charter

PURPOSE AND MISSION

This newsgroup will serve as a common ground for the exchange of ideas
and information about Switzerland and the several cultures that
inspire the alchemy of this special land. Switzerland is one of the
world's smaller nations, but its impact on science, technology, art,
statesmanship, and education has been greater than its size would
suggest. It has been the seat of religious revolution, home to
political dissidents, bastion of neutrality, and cauldron for a
national character that is at once diverse and unified --
hard-working, independent, and resolute. The paradox of the modern
Switzerland is that its independence rests on its inter-nationalism.
The Swiss are all over the globe, and the world's architects of
commerce and state-craft are constant visitors to Switzerland.
Switzerland is a microcosm of Europe and an outpost for observing
change and development within the European Community. This newsgroup
should provide a place for those with an interest in Swiss culture,
politics, and national affairs to trade thoughts, and for those who
want to learn more about this unique land to do so. For the Swiss
Abroad -- known as the "Fifth Switzerland" (after the German, French,
Italian, and Rumantsch) -- this newsgroup should provide a way to keep
in touch and to discuss the frequent referenda that typify the direct
Swiss democracy and which are so important in maintaining a sense of
national unity and full participation in the life of the country. For
the Swiss in Switzerland the newsgroup should be an additional way for
the three language cultures to interact.

RULES

(a) Contributors may use any written language they would use in
Switzerland, as well as English. But if a sender chooses to use a
dialect, it will be an understood courtesy of the newsgroup to offer a
summary translation for others. Any message can be answered in the
same, or a different language. The newsgroup should not be a "club"
for any one language community.

(b) Within the general purpose of the newsgroup, there will be no
restrictions on topics or message content. However, contributors will
emphasize the decorum and respect that typify Switzerland, even when
there are disagreements. Thus, the newsgroup should try to become a
model of meaningful, but respectful communications, so sorely needed
in the world.

(c) Contributors should use best efforts to distinguish
messages of general interest from personal mail. It is perfectly
proper to seek specific help or information, but if the result is
a strictly personal exchange, contributors should consider direct
E-mail, instead of postings to soc.culture.swiss.

(d) This charter is provisional and subject to the wishes of the
community it serves. It is not "owned" by any person, language
community, or commercial interest. Users with ideas for amendments or
improvements should post them to soc.culture.swiss or to the present
contact person.

1.2 Changes since last posting

- UNO membership

 

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• Index
• next: 2. Switzerland: the Country - Introduction

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