Valais at the Heart of Empirical Economic Research

On 7 November 2025, UniDistance Suisse hosted the “Valais Econometrics Workshop” on its campus in Brig for the first time. The event brought together researchers from Switzerland and abroad who specialise in data-based methods for analysing economic relationships, providing an opportunity for them to exchange ideas on new approaches and findings in empirical economic research. “The discussions focused on recent advances in causal analysis using machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI), whose applications provide new insights into economic relationships,” explains Prof. Dr. Anthony Strittmatter, Professor of Economics, Interim Vice-Rector for Research at UniDistance Suisse, and organiser of the event.

“The topics addressed during the workshop provide valuable foundations for applied research and are increasingly used by public administrations and private companies seeking to make evidence-based decisions,” Professor Dr. Strittmatter continues. Examples include issues of fairness in economic policy and the use of learning algorithms in labour market research. “Such methods help to extract reliable insights from large volumes of data, thus providing a stronger basis for political and economic decision-making,” he adds.

By organising this event, UniDistance Suisse contributes to strengthening the Canton of Valais as an internationally recognised research hub. “With the Valais Econometrics Workshop, we aim to promote scientific exchange and contribute to the advancement of high-quality research,” concludes Professor Strittmatter.