Italy and Switzerland modify their borders in the Alps, what is the reason for this change?
Italy and Switzerland are in the process of redefine part of their common border due to the melting of the glaciers that, historically, have marked the natural boundary between both countries.
The area in question is located in the Alps regionnear one of the best-known peaks in the area, the Matterhorn, one of the most recognizable mountains in Europe and an important tourist destination. This update of the border limits has been promoted by the effects of global warming, which has accelerated the retreat of glaciers and significantly altered the mountainous landscape.
Although national borders are often considered fixed, Many sections of the Italian-Swiss border have been defined by natural features such as glaciers and snowfields. However, the rapid thaw of these formations is forcing the two countries to take measures to adapt their limits. In 2023, both governments agreed to modify the border, and Switzerland has officially approved the changes, while Italy is in the process of doing the same.
What is happening in the Alps?
The melting of glaciers in the Alps has been dramatic in recent years. According to Matthias Huss, a glaciologist at ETH Zurich and director of GLAMOS, the Swiss glacier monitoring network, Switzerland lost 4% of its glacier volume in 2023, only surpassed by the record loss of 6% in 2022. This trend continues to affect Europe, the continent that is warming most rapidly.
In addition to the impact on borders, The retreat of glaciers has raised concerns about the safety of the mountains and the supply of fresh water, vital for local populations.. The change in national boundaries is just one of the many effects that this phenomenon is having on the environment and on people’s lives.
