Archive · 5 Dec 2025
Swiss government gains support for EU ties deal
The Swiss government has received support from most groups it consulted about a new agreement with the European Union.
This agreement covers many important areas like electricity, transportation, and money.
The Swiss government thinks this agreement is the best way to have good relations with the EU without joining it.
They will send the recommendations to the Swiss parliament in March and will also let the public vote on it in a referendum.
Some people in Switzerland are not sure about getting closer to the EU, but the government believes it is important for stability.
The Swiss government received backing from a majority of consulted groups for a new agreement with the EU.
The agreement covers areas like electricity, state aid, transport, freedom of movement, and financial contributions.
The Swiss government prefers a bilateral approach over joining the EU or doing nothing.
The recommendations will be sent to the Swiss parliament in March 2024.
A referendum will be held to let the Swiss public have a say on the agreement.
- Who
- Swiss government and EU
- What
- Agreement to deepen ties between Switzerland and the EU
- When
- December 5, 2023 (announcement), expected parliamentary submission in March 2024
- Where
- Switzerland and the European Union
- Why
- To ensure stable and reliable relations during geopolitical tensions and economic protectionism
- Agreement Scope
- Electricity, state aid, transport, freedom of movement, and financial contributions
- Consultation Responses
- More than 300 responses received
- Swiss-EU Relations
- Bilateral approach preferred over EU membership or inaction
- Public Involvement
- Referendum planned for the Swiss public
- Expected Parliamentary Submission
- March 2024