Growing up in Zurich often felt like being removed from the world. It shouldn’t be that way: after all, Switzerland is at the heart of Europe. Riding on the cosy Zurich trams, one hears all the world’s languages; and the airport offers more direct intercontinental flights than Berlin. And yet, coming of age in Switzerland is like sitting in an aquarium looking at the world through a thick bulletproof window.

That glass was shattered last week when Donald Trump announced 39% tariffs on Swiss exports. The US is the most important destination for Swiss products: 18.6% of all its exports go there. If Trump maintains the tariffs, sales to the US “will be effectively annihilated”, said Switzerland’s industry lobbying group. The rightwing Swiss business minister, Guy Parmelin, announced a furlough programme to shield the economy from “mass layoffs”. The tabloid newspaper Blick captured the mood with a stark black front page, pronouncing it a “black day” for Switzerland.

Trump’s tariff shock has provoked a major identity crisis in a country that has grown rich on exports, and done so in splendid isolation from world politics.

To understand Switzerland, imagine it as a giant country club. First, you don’t get in there easily: immigration laws are tight, although being rich helps. Second, it’s a tidy place: every inch of land is curated, and every lawn mowed. Third, there are ample leisure activities on offer: after work, the Swiss go biking, or show off their toned bodies on the shores of immaculate lakes.

Most importantly, the Swiss club has traditionally offered its members tranquillity. History doesn’t happen........

© The Guardian