DigitalBarometer 2026: Switzerland Wants AI—But With Oversight

Nearly one in two people (48 percent) in Switzerland expect the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence to outweigh the risks over the next five years. This is shown by the Digital Barometer 2026, which was published on May 24, 2026. The study was conducted by the Risiko-Dialog Foundation, supported by Mobiliar, and carried out for the first time in partnership with digitalswitzerland. It is based on 1,278 representative responses from the Swiss resident population aged 16 and older.

Strong digital infrastructure, improved public perception of the government

More than half of those surveyed (58 percent) view digital infrastructure as one of Switzerland’s key strengths. Scientific research (49 percent) and the business sector’s capacity for innovation (45 percent) are also viewed positively by a majority. Particularly striking is the improved perception of politics and public administration: While digital public administration was still more often viewed as a weakness in 2025, it is rated significantly more positively in 2026, with 41 percent of respondents citing it as a strength.

First decline in sentiment since 2020

At the same time, the DigitalBarometer 2026 reveals a marked shift in sentiment. The generally positive underlying perception of the impact of digitalization on society, which has prevailed since 2020, is shifting for the first time: 41 percent of respondents now rate this impact as somewhat or very negative, while only 34 percent still rate it as somewhat or very positive. In addition, one in four people (24 percent) say they can no longer keep up with the pace of digitalization.

Daniela Ramp, project manager at the Risiko-Dialog Foundation, comments on the findings: «We are at a turning point when it comes to the general public’s attitude toward digitalization. Given the rapid pace of technological advancements, the persistently high proportion of people with low digital literacy, and the growing sense of being overwhelmed, it is important to take people’s fears seriously, address mistrust, and invest in educational initiatives.»

AI Optimism with Reservations

Although nearly one in two people see the opportunities as outweighing the risks, the general public remains ambivalent toward AI. Only 27 percent believe that AI will create new job opportunities, and 47 percent expect significant changes in the world of work without knowing where this development is headed. AI is viewed particularly critically in areas directly related to people and sensitive social issues—such as education and healthcare. Where AI is already being used in practice, however—for example, in industry and manufacturing—its potential is viewed much more positively.

Michèle Rodoni, CEO of Mobiliar, emphasizes: «At Mobiliar, our interest in AI extends beyond what is technically possible to how we can use it responsibly. Trust in AI is built through good governance, reliable data, transparent algorithms, and professional risk management.»

High level of reflective competence, but gaps in practical skills

For the first time, the DigitalBarometer has assessed the general public’s AI competencies—with a surprising result: 80 percent consider themselves thoughtful in their use of AI, recognize societal risks, question content, and believe that responsible use is important. However, gaps become apparent when it comes to practical application: Only 53 percent feel confident using AI tools in practice, and about half do not know where AI is specifically used for fraudulent purposes. In addition, 74 percent fear that AI will undermine creative work and independent thinking.

Franziska Barmettler, CEO of digitalswitzerland, says: «The fact that the public is familiar with AI and that most people are already using it sends a strong signal. But awareness of the technology alone is not enough. Too many people lack practical knowledge of how to use it. We have a responsibility to invest in the skills needed so that everyone can benefit from these tools and use them responsibly.»

«Made in Switzerland» as a Symbol of Trust

83 percent of respondents say that a «Made in Switzerland» label would strengthen their trust in digital services—an EU label falls far short of this figure, at just 53 percent. When it comes to sensitive applications such as e-ID (56 percent) or the electronic patient record (58 percent), the government, as the entity responsible, enjoys significantly more trust than private companies. Nevertheless, a lack of digital independence remains one of the most frequently cited weaknesses, at 46 percent.

Clear Priorities: Creative Freedom and Data Protection

59 percent of the population supports Switzerland actively promoting new technologies such as AI to remain competitive—rather than waiting to see what happens. When it comes to data protection, the consensus is even broader: 76 percent prioritize the protection of personal data over the convenience of digital applications. And 69 percent support stricter rules against disinformation and hate speech, even if this restricts freedom of expression. The results of the DigitalBarometer 2026 will be available starting May 24, 2026, at www.DigitalBarometer.ch available.