Mixed reactions to Switzerland-EU agreement.
The conclusion of negotiations on a new deal between Switzerland and the European Union has prompted varied reactions across political and organisational lines.
The Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSA) welcomed the outcome, describing it as positive news for the over 466,000 Swiss citizens living in EU/EFTA countries. Likewise, business groups such as the employers’ association, the Swiss Business Federation economiesuisse, and Swissmem, the association for the machinery, electrical engineering and metal (MEM) sector, praised the agreement, viewing it as an important step towards securing Switzerland’s established approach to international relations.
However, there was criticism among labour groups. The Swiss Trade Union Federation and Travailsuisse expressed concerns that the agreement signals a dismantling of wage protection measures.
The deal also marks a significant development for the cantons, whose governments broadly welcomed the milestone.
On the political front, the right-wing Swiss People’s Party remains categorically opposed, rejecting the agreement as an “EU submission treaty.” To underline their stance, party members staged a “vigil” in front of the federal parliament building (pictured above).
Other parties adopted a more measured approach. The Centre Party appreciated the government’s decision to put the agreement up for separate discussion and announced plans to evaluate whether the outcomes offer practical solutions.
The left-wing Social Democratic Party supported the deal but urged the federal government to present a balanced package that upholds wage protection.
The centre-right Radical-Liberal Party considers the result to be better than previous attempts. The party neither cheers nor condemns the agreement.
The left-wing Greens celebrated the conclusion of the negotiations, calling it a significant breakthrough for Switzerland’s position in science and business. The centrist Liberal Green Party echoed this sentiment, commending the agreement as a tailor-made package that secures prosperity and future-proofing for Switzerland.
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Publish date : 2024-12-20 07:07:00
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