General Information

The Observatory compiles, analyses and publishes data on the state and development of sport and physical activity in Switzerland in order to create a reliable database to assess Swiss sports and sports policy.

The output of the Observatory consists of simple indicators as well as additional research studies on specific issues:

Indicators: Basic information on a number of issues relating to sport and physical activity in Switzerland is summarised in about 50 thematic groups of indicators. The indicators are aimed at providing users with fast and comprehensive information on the development of a number of relevant areas of Swiss sport.
Additional research studies: Certain areas of special interest are being examined in the framework of more encompassing research studies.

The selection of indicators and topics for additional studies is mainly based on the Federal Council's Concept for Swiss Sports Policy. Further important sources for the identification and selection of indicators are the Federal Council's most recent documents on the "Sport Policy Concept 2007-2010", the research concepts on sport and physical activity 2004-2007 and 2008-2011 as well as the FOSPO's strategic guidelines.

It is important to note that the Observatory is mainly concerned with measures implemented or stressed by the Federal Government and aimed at the promotion of sports and physical activity. With a view to a general understanding and assessment of Swiss sport, however, other dimensions and actors in Swiss sports are also taken into account.