Switzerland Today

Switzerland’s last free newspaper, 20 Minuten, has printed its final edition today. The commemorative issue marks the end of an era for Swiss media, with the paper having shaped daily reading habits since its launch in 1999.

20 Minuten first appeared in 1999 and quickly became a staple for commuters across Switzerland. At its peak, it reached 400,000 daily readers, offering a free, accessible news source in train stations and public spaces.

The paper’s success forced other publishers to adapt, reshaping the country’s media landscape. Its final print run—a special farewell edition released on 23 December 2025—features interviews with notable figures and retrospectives on its impact. The issue was produced by the 20 Minuten editorial team alongside TX Group staff.

Swiss Communications Minister Albert Rösti has spoken about the broader implications of the paper’s closure. He stressed the importance of a strong press in supporting Switzerland’s political stability. Rösti also called on businesses to bolster media indirectly by investing in advertising.

With this last edition, the free newspaper phenomenon in Switzerland officially comes to an end.

The disappearance of 20 Minuten leaves a gap in Switzerland’s daily media consumption. Its closure also signals a shift in how news is delivered and funded in the country. The commemorative edition now stands as a record of its 26-year influence.