NO to UDC initiative threatening EU bilateral deals

Context

In brief

• On June 14, vote on the UDC initiative against bilateral agreements with the EU
• The initiative aims to block immigration but would affect the rights of cross-border workers
• The Forum diritti senza confini recommends voting NO

Key facts

• What: UDC popular initiative "NO to a Switzerland with more than 10 million inhabitants"
• When: Vote on June 14, 2026
• Where: Switzerland
• Who: UDC and Forum diritti senza confini
• Amount: Not specified

On June 14, the Swiss population will be called to vote on the UDC popular initiative "NO to a Switzerland with more than 10 million inhabitants." If approved, this initiative could lead to the isolation of the country and compromise relations with the European Union. This is the tenth time in a quarter of a century that the UDC has attempted to sabotage relations between Switzerland and the EU, using both popular initiatives and referendums.

The initiative is based on the alleged fight against the growth in the number of resident foreigners. However, the increase in the foreign population in Switzerland, both before and after the entry into force of the bilateral agreements with the EU, is a direct consequence of the economic system also supported by the UDC. This system is based on the continuous growth of consumption, production, exchange volumes, and GDP, which also requires an increase in workers and consumers.

Implications for cross-border workers

Approval of the initiative would imply a historic step backward for the rights of foreigners in Switzerland. In particular, it would call into question the system of B permits granted to workers from the European Union, family reunifications, and the right of asylum in its concrete bases.

The Forum diritti senza confini signals that the UDC initiative dreams of an isolated Switzerland, with foreign workers without family and without land, hireable and expellable at will. This vision represents a nightmare for those who imagine a future of well-being for the country, for those who want to do business there, for those who want to work in a stable and humanly acceptable context, and for those who see Switzerland as a lifeline from persecution and war.

For these reasons, the Forum recommends a clear NO to the initiative.

Concrete examples and real numbers

In Ticino, cross-border workers represent a significant part of the workforce. According to 2023 data, there are approximately 25,000 cross-border workers working in the canton, mainly in the municipalities of Lugano, Mendrisio, and Chiasso. These workers contribute substantially to the local economy, with an estimated impact of over 1.2 billion Swiss francs per year.

Regulations and key dates

The bilateral agreements between Switzerland and the EU, which came into force in 2002, have facilitated the free movement of people. If the UDC initiative is approved, it could lead to the revocation of these agreements, with immediate consequences for cross-border workers. For example, B permits, which allow EU workers to live and work in Switzerland, could be revoked or made more difficult to obtain.

Operational checklist

1. Check permits: Cross-border workers should verify the validity of their residence and work permits. 2. Legal consultation: It is advisable to consult a lawyer specializing in labor and immigration law. 3. Family planning: Cross-border workers with families should consider the implications for family reunifications. 4. Monitoring regulations: Keep an eye on any legislative changes that could affect their status.

Comparison of practical scenarios

If the initiative is approved, cross-border workers could face significant difficulties. For example, workers in Chiasso could face stricter controls and possible restrictions on free movement. On the other hand, if the initiative is rejected, cross-border workers could continue to benefit from the bilateral agreements, maintaining the stability and security of their employment status.

For these reasons, it is crucial that cross-border workers and all Swiss citizens are informed and participate in the vote on June 14.

Operational details

Analysis of the Consequences

The approval of the UDC initiative could have significant consequences for cross-border workers in Switzerland, particularly in Ticino, where 20% of the active population consists of cross-border workers. The B permits, which allow EU workers to reside and work in Switzerland, could be called into question. This could lead to greater uncertainty for cross-border workers, who may see their residence and work rights compromised.

For example, in 2022, approximately 67,000 cross-border workers commuted to Switzerland from Ticino, with an estimated economic impact of over 2.3 billion Swiss francs. A revision of the B permits could force many of these workers to leave the country, with negative consequences for the local economy.

Furthermore, the initiative could influence family reunifications, making it more difficult for foreign workers to bring their families to Switzerland. Currently, cross-border workers can apply for family reunification after a residence period of at least one year, with a minimum income of 3,788 Swiss francs per month. If the initiative is approved, these conditions could become more stringent, significantly impacting the quality of life for cross-border workers and their ability to settle and integrate into the country.

Comparison with the Current Situation

Currently, cross-border workers benefit from bilateral agreements that guarantee them specific rights and protections. These agreements are the result of years of negotiations between Switzerland and the EU and represent a delicate balance between the needs of the Swiss labor market and the rights of foreign workers.

For example, cross-border workers in Ticino can benefit from working conditions and salaries comparable to those of Swiss workers. Additionally, they can access public services such as healthcare and education, with social security contributions amounting to approximately 10% of gross salary.

If the UDC initiative is approved, this balance could be compromised, with negative consequences for cross-border workers and the Swiss economy as a whole. The country's isolation could lead to a reduction in trade exchanges and greater difficulty in recruiting qualified workers from the EU.

Future Scenarios

In the event of the initiative's approval, Switzerland could face a series of challenges. Firstly, it may be forced to negotiate new agreements with the EU, a process that could be lengthy and complex. Additionally, the country's isolation could lead to greater political and economic pressure, with negative consequences for Swiss citizens and foreign workers.

For cross-border workers, the approval of the initiative could mean greater uncertainty and instability. They may be forced to deal with new regulations and procedures, which could make their work and personal lives more difficult. Additionally, they may be forced to leave Switzerland, with negative consequences for their families and careers.

Operational Checklist for Cross-Border Workers

1. Residence permit verification: Ensure you have a valid residence permit and are aware of the conditions for its renewal. 2. Employment documentation: Keep all documents related to your employment up-to-date, including contracts and pay slips. 3. Family reunification: If you are planning to bring your family to Switzerland, make sure to meet all current conditions and be prepared for potential changes. 4. Financial planning: Evaluate your financial options and ensure you have emergency savings in case of changes in work or residence conditions. 5. Legal consultation: Consider consulting a lawyer specializing in labor and immigration law to better understand your options and rights.

Comparisons between practical scenarios

• Current scenario: Cross-border workers can work in Switzerland with a B permit, benefit from working conditions equal to those of Swiss workers, and access public services. - Post-initiative scenario: Cross-border workers might face new, stricter regulations, with possible restrictions on residence permits and family reunification. This could lead to a reduction in the number of qualified workers available and a negative impact on the Swiss economy.

Conclusion

The approval of the SVP initiative represents a significant threat to cross-border workers and the Swiss economy. It is crucial that cross-border workers are aware of the potential consequences and prepare adequately to face any changes. Switzerland, and particularly Ticino, greatly benefits from the contribution of cross-border workers, and any measure that compromises their rights and working conditions should be avoided.

Useful tools to protect your net income

To reduce FX leakage, compare CHF-EUR exchange options and banks for cross-border workers.

Key points

What to do now

In light of the June 14th vote on the SVP initiative, it is crucial that Ticino cross-border workers are well informed and actively participate in the debate. The initiative proposes the abolition of bilateral agreements with the EU, which could have significant consequences on the working and personal lives of cross-border workers. For example, currently around 65,000 cross-border workers work in Ticino, significantly contributing to the local economy. A potential exit from the bilateral agreements could lead to restrictions on work permits and an increase in administrative costs.

Voting procedure

To exercise their voting rights, cross-border workers must follow a well-defined procedure:

1. Registration in the electoral lists: Cross-border workers must ensure they are registered in the electoral lists of their municipality of residence. For example, in Lugano, it is possible to contact the municipal electoral office or visit the municipality's website. 2. Receiving the ballot papers: Once registered, cross-border workers will receive the ballot papers at home or can vote at the polling stations. In Bellinzona, the polling stations are open from Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. 3. Important deadlines: It is essential to respect the deadlines for registration and voting. For example, in Locarno, the deadline for registration in the electoral lists is set for June 4, 2024.

Useful tools

For further information and to participate in the debate, cross-border workers can visit the website of the Forum diritti senza confini. Additionally, they can use the salary calculator to better understand the economic implications of the SVP initiative. For example, the calculator can show how a potential increase in taxes could reduce the net income of a cross-border worker by approximately 10-15%.

Conclusion

The SVP initiative represents a significant threat to the rights of cross-border workers and the economic stability of Switzerland. It is essential that cross-border workers are informed and participate in the debate to ensure that their rights are protected and that Switzerland can continue to benefit from cooperation with the EU.

"The active participation of cross-border workers is essential to defend their rights and the economic future of Ticino."

For further information, visit the salary calculator.

Source: tio.ch