BERN: After years of painstaking talks, Switzerland and the European Union unveiled a landmark agreement Friday to reset their complex relationship. But the deal is already facing stiff opposition at home, with hard-right politicians and trade unions voicing strong objections.
Swiss voters will ultimately have the last word, with a referendum expected in 2027.
The agreement aims to streamline ties between Switzerland and its largest trading partner, which are currently governed by a tangled web of over 120 separate agreements. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailed the deal as “historic,” calling it a foundation for enduring cooperation.
Speaking in Bern alongside Switzerland’s President Viola Amherd, von der Leyen described the reset as a pivotal moment. Amherd echoed the sentiment, calling it a “milestone” for stabilizing and advancing relations. “This benefits everyone—citizens, businesses, employees, students, and researchers on both sides,” she said.
However, not everyone is celebrating. The Swiss People’s Party (SVP), known for its staunchly anti-EU stance, has condemned the agreement as a step toward unwelcome integration. Trade unions, too, have voiced significant reservations, particularly around workers’ rights and economic sovereignty.
For the EU, the deal must first clear the European Council, requiring unanimous approval from all 27 member states. On the Swiss side, the government plans to sign off on the agreement by early 2025, submit it to parliament in 2026, and finally bring it to the people for a nationwide vote.
While Friday’s announcement marks a breakthrough, the road ahead is fraught with political hurdles. With critics gearing up for a fight, Switzerland’s long and winding path toward redefining its relationship with the EU is far from over.
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