A recent study by Christopher Morgenthaler of Bern University on the relationship between Swiss youth and religion has shown that religion remains an important part of their lives: 40% characterize themselves as a “religious person,” somewhat higher than in France (35%), the UK (32%), or Germany (32%), though far behind Italy (84%). More surprisingly, the study seems to show that highly-religious youth are in fact more accepting of religious plurality than other groups.
The relationship between youth and religion in Switzerland has also been studied by other experts, such as Janine Dahinden from the University of Neuenburg, who speaks of a new “do-it-yourself-faith,” highlighting the eclectic belief system of the youth. On the other hand, Andreas Tunger-Zanetti of the University of Lucerne prefers to highlight the aspect of “religious illiteracy” that is to be found among Swiss youth today.
The study showed that youth with a migratory background belonging to non-Christian groups (Muslims or Hindus) were in general more religious than others. However, even they are not as anchored in their beliefs as certain Christian groups, and often the “homeland” in general plays a greater role for their identity than their religion.
