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Latest politics news and updates from Switzerland. AI-curated articles covering politics topics.
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Following high-profile cases, Swiss Interior Minister Elisabeth Baume-Schneider is demanding better protection against sexual violence involving date rape drugs. She stressed the need for improved public information, prevention through education, and consistent prosecution of perpetrators.
26 days ago · 1 source
healthcare
Philippe Luchsinger, former president of the Association of General Practitioners, has ignited a debate on healthcare costs by accusing specialists of using outdated fee schedules to bill for more time than modern technical examinations require, effectively overcharging the system.
SWI swissinfo.ch
politics
A new examination of federal archives reveals that Swiss police secretly monitored at least 39 government ministers, including future presidents like Christoph Blocher and Ruth Dreifuss, between 1930 and 1989. The surveillance was part of the notorious 'Secret Files Scandal', with files opened based on the officials' political activities in their youth.
SWI swissinfo.ch
politics
Supporters of the 'Safeguard Swiss Neutrality' initiative have officially launched their campaign for the upcoming September referendum. The move comes amid international attention, including commentary from Russia, on the future of Switzerland's long-standing neutrality.
The Local Switzerland · +2 more
national security
The Swiss Federal Intelligence Service warns of increasing threats from Russian espionage and terrorism, spurring government proposals for a VAT hike to fund defense and negotiations for new long-range air defence systems.
The Local Switzerland · +2 more
politics
The Swiss Senate and House of Representatives are at odds over how to finance the voter-approved 13th monthly pension payment. The Senate backs a mix of increased VAT and higher employee contributions, while the House had previously favored a VAT-only solution, setting the stage for a critical political decision on the future of the pension scheme.
Le News · +1 more
international relations
Public opinion in Switzerland towards the United States has deteriorated significantly, with a growing number viewing the US as a rival under President Trump. A new European survey cites his tariff policies and attacks on the international order as key reasons for the growing skepticism.
The Local Switzerland · +2 more
obituary
Jean Ziegler, a prominent Swiss sociologist, former politician, and one of the leading intellectual figures of the European left, has passed away in Geneva. A lifelong author and advocate, he was renowned for his fierce critiques of neoliberal globalisation and his fight for global justice.
SWI swissinfo.ch
politics
With polls showing a tight race for the 'No to 10 million' immigration initiative, Switzerland faces a critical decision. Business and union leaders have united to warn of economic chaos, while proponents argue the country's infrastructure is unprepared for further population growth.
energy
A new government report suggests it is technically and economically feasible to extend the operational life of the Gösgen and Leibstadt nuclear power plants to 80 years, a finding that could reshape Switzerland's long-term energy strategy.
SWI swissinfo.ch
politics
With a referendum looming, Switzerland is deeply divided over a proposal to cap the population at ten million by restricting immigration. A recent poll indicates a close race, as analyses highlight potential worker shortages and the People's Party suggests pro-natalist policies as an alternative.
The Local Switzerland · +3 more
economy
France is urging Switzerland to accelerate the implementation of a new EU agreement that would shift the cost of unemployment benefits for cross-border workers to the country of employment, a reform Paris claims would save it €860 million annually.
SWI swissinfo.ch
economy
The Swiss government has signaled support for a proposal to increase the number of Sundays shops can open from four to twelve per year, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from unions over worker protection.
SWI swissinfo.ch
energy
In a significant policy shift, a Swiss parliamentary committee has supported lifting the ban on constructing new nuclear power plants, positioning atomic energy as a viable option for the country's future electricity supply.
SWI swissinfo.ch
politics
The Federal Council has officially submitted its package of agreements with the European Union to parliament, initiating the next phase of debate on a plan to stabilize and develop Switzerland’s relationship with the bloc. President Guy Parmelin stated the package is in the nation's best interest.
Le News
defense
A new survey reveals widespread public doubt about Switzerland's military preparedness, with a majority supporting closer cooperation with NATO. Coinciding with this sentiment, the Federal Council has proposed a CHF 3.4 billion investment to bolster the army, focusing on drone defense and cyber warfare capabilities.
SWI swissinfo.ch · +1 more
politics
At a party meeting, Swiss Greens endorsed a resolution for a clear roadmap to rapidly phase out fossil fuels. The party also threw its support behind a new popular initiative aimed at introducing a tax on airline tickets to curb air traffic and fund greener transport alternatives.
SWI swissinfo.ch
feminicide
The executive council of canton Bern has expressed its willingness to explicitly list feminicide in its crime statistics, marking a potential first in Switzerland. However, the cantonal government stated it prefers to wait for a uniform national definition before implementing the change.
SWI swissinfo.ch
politics
Swiss university leaders are sounding the alarm over the Swiss People's Party's immigration-curbing initiative. They argue that if passed, it could force Switzerland to terminate agreements with the EU, leading to exclusion from vital research programs like Horizon Europe and severely harming national innovation.
The Local Switzerland · +1 more
legal
In a landmark verdict, Switzerland's Federal Administrative Court has ruled that Ukrainian refugees previously granted protection in an EU or EFTA state are not eligible to remain in Switzerland, establishing a significant new precedent for national asylum policy.
SWI swissinfo.ch
