Swiss Government Approves EU Treaty Package Sent for Public Consultation

The Swiss government has approved a comprehensive new treaty package with the European Union that aims to regulate their relationship and enhance sectoral participation in the EU single market. Following nine months of negotiations, the agreement covers areas such as immigration, wage protections, electricity, and research cooperation, including retroactive association to key EU programs from January 2025. The package requires amendments to 32 federal laws and the creation of three new laws, and it has now been released for public consultation until the end of October 2025, with input expected from political parties, cantons, and social partners. After consultation, the Federal Council plans to submit the bill to parliament in early 2026, with a national referendum anticipated in 2027 or later amid opposition from the Swiss People's Party. Transitional arrangements have been agreed upon to maintain the partnership between Switzerland and the EU from the end of 2024 until the treaty's full implementation. The Swiss government emphasizes the strategic necessity of stable relations with the EU given the current global geopolitical uncertainties.