Matterhorn in 1991. Photo: Kirsten Kohlwey

ZERMATT, Switzerland — The Swiss Federal Council approved an agreement on Sept. 27 to adjust the border with Italy due to glacial melt. The two countries reached the deal in May 2023, and Italy is expected to ratify it soon.

Why it matters:

Glaciers in the Matterhorn region are melting by up to 6% annually, reshaping the natural boundary between the nations. “In the high mountains, significant sections of the Italian-Swiss border are determined by the watershed, represented by the crest line of glaciers, snowfields, and perpetual snow,” the Swiss government explained to Unofficial Networks. “With the melting of the glaciers, these natural elements evolve and redefine the national border when it is defined dynamically.”

The details:

The final borders will be determined after Italy ratifies the agreement. Economic interests to be considered include keeping mountain stations in the Matterhorn region on the “proper side.” This means the border will not only be determined by ridgelines and watersheds but also by creative outlines to keep existing mountain stations in their current country. The agreement allows for an exchange or the purchase of areas to achieve this. This concerns the areas surrounding the Testa Grigia, the Plateau Rosa, the Carrel Refuge, and Gobba di Rollin. All are near the Matterhorn and popular ski resorts, such as Zermatt in Switzerland and Breuil-Cervinia in Italy.