The Cost of Discrimination in the Ticino Labour Market (cross-border guide)

Di Valerie Linc · Published on

Discrimination in the workplace costs Switzerland up to CHF 35 billion, with foreigners earning on average 24% less than Swiss nationals. Discover how integration can be a strategic choice for businesses and how to tackle this issue.

Contesto

TL;DR - Discrimination costs Swiss economy up to CHF 35 billion. - Foreigners earn 24% less than Swiss nationals on average. - Integration is crucial for Ticino's labor market due to aging population. ## Key facts - Cost of discrimination: Up to CHF 35 billion to the Swiss economy. - Wage gap: Foreigners earn 24% less than Swiss nationals on average. - IKEA's diversity: Employs 3,500 people from 103 nationalities, including 310 refugees. - Canton delegate: Michela Trisconi emphasizes discrimination is a loss of potential. - Ticino's position: Strategic border location with Italy, diversity is everyday reality. - Border crossings: Brogeda and Gaggiolo are key border crossings in Ticino. - Source: RSI, 21.03.2026 Discrimination in the labour market is a problem that affects not only the Canton of Ticino but all of Switzerland. According to the cantonal delegate for the integration of foreigners, Michela Trisconi, discrimination can cost up to CHF 35 billion to the Swiss economy. This alarming data highlights the need to address this issue and promote integration in the workplace. The Ticino industrial sector, which exports over 80% of its production, is aware of the importance of tackling these issues. Stefano Modenini, director of the Association of Ticino Industries, emphasizes that with demographic ageing and declining birth rates, integration is no longer just a choice but a necessity for the labour market. Businesses must adapt to this reality and enhance discussions on integration and diversity. A virtuous example of integration is IKEA, which employs 3,500 employees from 103 different nationalities and has hired 310 refugees. Stefano Santinelli, Employee Experience Manager at IKEA, explains that the company's economic goal is to satisfy the majority of people,...

Dettagli operativi

Discrimination in the labour market has a significant impact on the economy of Ticino and Switzerland. According to estimates, discrimination can cost up to CHF 35 billion to the Swiss economy, with 52% of these cases occurring in the labour market. This data highlights the importance of addressing this issue and promoting integration in the labour market. The Canton of Ticino, with its strategic position on the border with Italy, is a place where cultural diversity is an everyday reality. Ticino businesses must be aware of this diversity and adopt measures to ensure that all employees, regardless of their nationality or origin, are treated fairly and with respect. Discrimination in the labour market can manifest in various ways. For example, foreigners may be subject to wage disparities, with salaries on average 24% lower than those of Swiss nationals. This wage gap is unacceptable and must be addressed to ensure a fair and just workplace. Businesses must adopt hiring and promotion policies based on candidates' skills and qualifications rather than their nationality or origin. This will ensure that the best talents are selected and that businesses can benefit from the diversity of their workforce. Additionally, it is important for businesses to provide an inclusive and respectful workplace environment where all employees feel valued and appreciated. This will not only improve employee well-being but also contribute to a more productive and collaborative work environment. To promote integration in the labour market, businesses can adopt various measures. For example, they can organize training courses on diversity and inclusion to raise awareness among employees on these topics and promote a respectful workplace environment. Additionally, they can collaborate with...

Punti chiave

Discrimination in the labour market is a problem that cannot be ignored. As we have seen, it has a significant impact on the economy and the well-being of workers. To tackle this phenomenon, it is crucial for businesses to adopt inclusive and diverse policies, ensuring that all employees are treated fairly and with respect. If you are a foreign worker in Ticino and have experienced discrimination or have doubts about your rights, do not hesitate to contact the Office for the Integration of Foreigners. Their team is available to provide support and advice and help you assert your rights. You can find their contact information on the Canton of Ticino's website. Additionally, it is important to be aware of your rights and responsibilities. Inform yourself about the laws and regulations that protect foreign workers in Switzerland, and do not hesitate to ask for help if needed. Remember that discrimination is illegal and should not be tolerated. To delve deeper into the topic, you can use our salary calculator, which will help you understand if your salary is in line with Swiss standards. This tool is particularly useful for foreign workers, who often face wage disparities. You can access the salary calculator from our homepage, in the "Tools" section. Finally, do not forget to stay updated on the latest news and developments in the Ticino labour market. Follow our website and social media to always be informed about the latest news and opportunities in the sector. Remember, information is power, and being aware of your rights is the first step towards a fairer and more respectful workplace. Source: RSI, 21.03.2026

Punti chiave

[{"q":"How to deal with discrimination in the world of work in Switzerland?","a":"The cantonal delegate for integration, Michela Trisconi, stresses that discrimination in the world of work is a loss of potential. Companies must ensure that their employees are treated fairly, regardless of their nationality or origin."},{"q":"How can I check if my salary has been affected by the 24% salary gap for foreigners in Switzerland?","a":"To check, compare your salary with the average salary data for your position and industry in Switzerland (e.g. use statistics from the SFO - Federal Statistical Office). Also consider discussing with your HR department or legal counsel for a personalized analysis."},{"q":"What are the main strategies to promote the integration of foreign workers in Ticino?","a":"Companies can organize diversity trainings, partner with integration organizations, and adopt skills-based hiring policies, thereby creating more inclusive and respectful workplaces."}]

Frequently Asked Questions
How to deal with discrimination in the world of work in Switzerland?
The cantonal delegate for integration, Michela Trisconi, stresses that discrimination in the world of work is a loss of potential. Companies must ensure that their employees are treated fairly, regardless of their nationality or origin.
How can I check if my salary has been affected by the 24% salary gap for foreigners in Switzerland?
To check, compare your salary with the average salary data for your position and industry in Switzerland (e.g. use statistics from the SFO - Federal Statistical Office). Also consider discussing with your HR department or legal counsel for a personalized analysis.
What are the main strategies to promote the integration of foreign workers in Ticino?
Companies can organize diversity trainings, partner with integration organizations, and adopt skills-based hiring policies, thereby creating more inclusive and respectful workplaces.

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