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Press releasePublished on 17 October 2025, updated on 17 October 2025

175 years of the federal census, 165 years of expertise: the FSO celebrates a double anniversary in society’s service

Neuchâtel, 17.10.2025 — On World Statistics Day, 20 October, we celebrate the importance of high-quality official statistics and data for all. Good decisions and a vibrant democracy begin with neutral and reliable information. In Switzerland, this commitment has guided our approach for 175 years, since the first federal census in 1850 and the establishment of the Federal Statistical Bureau – the predecessor of today's Federal Statistical Office (FSO).