Yep, neg refs aren't given but they are often "coded". While on the face of it they might seem broadly positive, HR can and do "code it up" such that potential employers will not rely on the written one and cause them to call up to find out more.

Specifically, mine was good - I am very good at the work that I do - but the fact that they didn't "wish me well in my future endeavours" at the end of the ref pricked up the ears of all potential employers and that led to my having to go back to past employers in the UK with my begging bowl.

Under normal circumstances, I don't believe that Switzerland is any different from the UK - they don't normally call to check up. From my experience, I chose to be open about it from the start. I got there in the end. I dealt with the new Manager directly and the Director above him and we talked. HR, incidentally were kept well out of it by them because if HR had anything to do with it they prolly would have closed the door there and then.

Good luck!!