Compass Initiative: the Government proposes to reject it (cross-border guide)

Context

In a nutshell

• The Government rejects the Compass Initiative without counterproposal.
• The proposal aims to extend the mandatory referendum to international treaties.
• Delivered over 111,000 valid signatures in 2025.
• Central node: voting procedures on future Bilateral agreements III.

Key facts

• What: Recommendation to reject the Compass Initiative.
• When: Decision in principle confirmed on Wednesday.
• Where: Bern, Federal Council.
• Who: Federal Council, Parliament, initiative promoters.
• Amount: Over 111,000 valid signatures delivered.

The Federal Council has officially recommended to Parliament to reject the so-called "Compass Initiative", without advancing any counter-proposal, neither direct nor indirect. The decision, matured and reiterated last Wednesday on the basis of an orientation already consolidated on 26 November last year, marks a clear break point between the Executive and the promoters of the initiative. Thelatter, launched in 2024 and deposited in 2025 with the support of over 111,000 valid signatures, proposes to modify the constitutional rules relating to the process of approving international treaties. In particular, the text aims to impose a mandatory referendum for all agreements that provide for the transposition of rules of law. This mechanism, which requires a double majority of the people and Cantons, would be applied as a priority to future packages of agreements with the European Union, known

Operational details

The analysis of the practical implications regarding the rejection of the 'Bussola' Initiative reveals a deep conflict between the need for greater direct democratic participation and the necessity of maintaining efficient governance in international relations. The promoters' proposal is not limited to a procedural change, but touches the very essence of managing international treaties that have a direct impact on the cost of living and the labor market in Switzerland. Had the initiative been accepted, every future normative international agreement would have undergone a much more burdensome and uncertain ratification process. For the citizen, this would mean periodically facing calls to the polls with qualified majorities, making the negotiation of long-term agreements extremely complex. The Government fears that such a constraint would turn every agreement, even technical ones, into a field of total political confrontation, paralyzing diplomatic activity. From the perspective of economic stability, the Federal Council's choice to favor the optional referendum allows for better management of the transposition of European regulations that influence key sectors such as the free movement of persons or the recognition of professional qualifications. Without the 'Bussola' Initiative, current procedures remain unchanged: the salary and tax calculator will not undergo direct variations, but the overall regulatory framework remains anchored to existing practices. It is important to consider that, while the promoters argue for the need to vote first on the 'rules of the game' (the initiative) and only subsequently on the contents of the Bilateral III agreements, the Executive believes this sequence is a pretext. The major concern relates to the transitional provision included in the text of the initiative, which specifically and targetedly aims to block or condition the approval of the EU package. ### Future scenarios and legislative impact If Parliament were to follow the Government's recommendation and reject the text, the current ratification practice would be confirmed. This scenario guarantees continuity in bilateral relations but keeps political tension high between forces calling for stricter control over international agreements and those that see European integration as an indispensable engine for national economic prosperity. The management of dossiers, including those related to pension and labor regulations, will not see immediate procedural changes.

Key points

For those living in Switzerland who wish to delve into the impact of these decisions on daily and professional life, it is essential to monitor upcoming parliamentary steps. The rejection of the initiative does not preclude the possibility that the debate on the Bilaterals III may shift to other paths, making it essential to understand how future decisions will influence the labor market and the cost of living. The tools provided by the portal allow you to assess your economic situation in a context that remains stable, despite political uncertainties. For those wishing to verify their salary or tax conditions, it is possible to use the salary calculator, which offers a detailed analysis based on current regulations. It is worth remembering that, regardless of future votes on international treaties, tax and social security obligations remain unchanged. Taxpayers must continue to refer to the deadlines communicated by cantonal and federal administrations, without waiting for changes resulting from the debate on the 'Bussola' Initiative. Financial planning, including the management of the third pillar or the second pillar, should not be altered by speculations on possible regulatory changes that have not yet been defined. In case of doubts about your social security or tax situation, it is advisable to consult the official guides to have a clear and updated picture. Swiss politics continues to proceed through a structured democratic confrontation, where Parliament has the final say on the proposal in question. Staying informed about the work of the federal chambers is the only way to understand the directions that future bilateral agreements will take, which will have a direct or indirect impact on the well-being of those who reside and work in Switzerland. For a specific analysis of your income, we highly recommend using the dedicated calculator, which allows you to simulate different salary hypotheses in compliance with current legislation.