✨ A New Board with Familiar Faces 

• Elena Allendörfer (Co-President): Newly elected to the board, Elena is a familiar face. Having collaborated with Volt on events like the Eurovision Song Contest Event in Basel and the Women’s Euro Event in Bern during her time at Operation Libero, she brings professional campaigning expertise and engaging energy to our chapter.

• Roland Müller (Co-President): Re-elected for his third term, Roland has been instrumental in setting the strategic direction and building the organisational foundation that spurred our growth over the last two years.

• Elias Kulig (Treasurer): Elias will apply his background in economics to bolster our financial stability and expand our donor network.

• Paula Heidbrink (Non-Executive): Bringing expertise from her studies in International Relations, Paula has served as City Lead in Geneva and Lausanne and is an active member of the Swiss policy team.

• Cédric Christian (Non-Executive): Cédric is another familiar face. He was part of the 2024 Board as Treasurer and is Lead of the Policy Team. 

We congratulate the newly elected board and look forward to a fruitful and inspiring two-year term.

🙏 Gratitude for the Board Members Stepping Down

We also wish to extend our deepest gratitude to our outgoing board members, Danilo Lo Pumo and Oskar van Maren, who decided not to seek re-election. The incredible growth and professionalization of Volt Switzerland would not have been possible without your dedicated service.

Oskar van Maren has been a Non-Executive Board Member for the past two years and navigated us through the legal matters when adapting EUR regulations with Swiss law. Thank you for your expertise.

Danilo Lo Pumo served as Co-President for over six years and is a co-founder of Volt Switzerland. Without his dedication, passion and drive, Volt Switzerland would not be the party it is today. Thank you for your incredible efforts, from writing the first statutes, founding the core city teams we have today, to building the now self-sustaining Community Team that drives our growth. We are very lucky that Danilo will not leave Volt completely, but continue his work as Lead of the Community Team. 

💪 Kicking off the Fight Against Isolationism

The SVP is set to launch several initiatives aimed at damaging Switzerland’s relations with the European Union—including a proposal to withdraw from Schengen/Dublin should the population reach 10 million.

At the Assembly, we officially kick-started our campaign against these isolationist attacks. We collected vital ideas from our members on how to fight back.

📃 Revamped Statutes and Regulations

Our membership also approved a complete overhaul of our statutes and regulations. Following the adoption of new standards by Volt Europa last November, our board has successfully adapted them to the national level. This alignment ensures we have a more aligned, streamlined framework for the future.

The system change

The reform consists of two interlinked legislative proposals:

• (I) Federal Act on the Reform of Owner-Occupied Housing Taxation (including the abolition of the imputed rental value) → already passed by Parliament; no referendum was called.

• (II) Federal Decree on Cantonal Property Taxes on Second Homes → subject to a mandatory referendum (this is what we will vote on).

Important: Proposal (I) only enters into force if proposal (II) is also approved. A rejection of (II) therefore blocks the entire reform.

As part of the reform, the imputed rental value is abolished for both primary and secondary residences. As a fiscal offset, deductions for mortgage interest and maintenance are eliminated, and deductions for energy-efficiency renovations are shifted to the cantonal level. There, the cantons may decide for themselves whether, and to what extent, to continue such deductions. To ensure first-time homeownership does not become unattainable, a first-time buyer deduction will be introduced:

• Married couples who are not legally or factually separated: 10,000 CHF, reduced each year by 10% (i.e., 1,000 CHF).

• Single persons: 5,000 CHF, reduced each year by 10% (i.e., 500 CHF).
  
  

Owners of rental properties may continue to deduct mortgage interest on a “pro-rata restrictive” basis, i.e., in proportion to the share of their rental properties in their total assets (excluding their owner-occupied home). If the rental properties are held as private assets, maintenance costs, the costs of refurbishing newly acquired properties, insurance premiums, and third-party management fees can be deducted in full.

As a compromise, the cantonal property tax on second homes has been tied to the reform. This allows tourism-oriented cantons to offset revenue losses resulting from the abolition of the imputed rental value on second homes. The cantons can decide for themselves whether to introduce this tax and at what rate. It may only be levied on second homes that are predominantly owner-used (i.e., not rented out).

Volt's Position

The current system is dysfunctional, harms Switzerland, and favors the very wealthy

Switzerland has the highest private debt ratio in the world. For comparison: in Switzerland it stands at 126%, while in Germany, where interest deductions are only allowed for rented properties, it is 53.5%. This single comparison is only partly meaningful, but it symbolizes the perverse incentives in the Swiss system. The debt ratio is twice as high as in the euro area. High indebtedness weakens the economy and poses a systemic risk for Switzerland.

What’s more, mortgage interest deductions drive up prices without increasing the homeownership rate, since the primary beneficiaries are the very wealthy.

The same applies to deductions for energy-efficiency renovations: many of these investments would be made even without tax incentives. In practice, they often amount to a tax break for the well-off.

The conclusion is clear: we need a system change.

The reform is an improvement over the status quo

Limiting mortgage interest deductions to first-time buyers in the future significantly curbs the misaligned incentives described above. With a view to potentially higher interest rates (above 1.5%), the support could have been set a bit higher and split evenly between principal amortization and mortgage interest. Such a design would have strengthened the support effect: falling mortgage balances reduce future interest burdens and make further amortization easier. In its current form, at least, the reform still provides targeted support without primarily benefiting the very wealthy.

The elimination of deductions for value-preserving renovations is regrettable: depending on the loan-to-value ratio, owners of properties in need of refurbishment will be among the relative losers of the reform during the first 10 to 30 years. Even if this group is small at today’s interest levels, this rule counts among the less successful adjustments.

We view the potential elimination of deductions for energy-efficiency renovations as less problematic. Due to high windfall effects, the intended steering effect has so far been missed. Instead, climate laws and other instruments should be used to introduce targeted measures that are more effective and, in particular, support those owners who could not otherwise afford such renovations.

Introducing a cantonal property tax on second homes is welcome in light of the reform’s fiscal risks; it brings no apparent downsides.

The reform is not perfect, but it represents a clear improvement over the status quo.

The beneficiaries are more diverse than just “the rich”

Retirees with little or no mortgage debt generally benefit the most: for them, the imputed rental value disappears without losing any significant deductions. This holds across income groups and, in relative terms, leads to noticeable tax relief for many.

Quelle Bilder: (I) Eidgenössische Steuerverwaltung: https://www.estv2.admin.ch/stp/notizen/stp-notizen-2025-verteilwirkungen-emw-de.pdf
(II) Bundesamt für Statistik, “Wie wohnt die Mitte”

First-time buyers benefit in a targeted and time-limited way through the new interest deduction in the first ten years after purchase. Highly indebted households, by contrast, only gain when interest rates are low; if rates rise sharply, the end of the interest deduction can tip the balance into the negative. While many homeowners are found in the top 25% of incomes, the converse is not true: roughly every second person in the middle-income group lives in owner-occupied housing, and this group makes up more than half of the population. Of course, within this group it is primarily the wealthier segment that has high ownership rates. The richest are, relative to their income class, the most affected within their class, but they are also only a small share of the overall population. For the distributional question (“Who pays for what?”), what matters is how large a share of the homeownership “pie” each income class holds, and middle incomes are well represented here (see the distribution of income and homeownership).

The very wealthy are also not automatically winners from the reform, as they are often highly leveraged, something the tax administration also notes. Renters do not benefit; in the short term, they will even count among the losers. On the one hand, the proposal does not affect them directly; on the other, there are fiscal risks: if a deficit occurs, plausible in the short run, though likely smaller than the tax administration assumes, the burden will depend on the chosen financing strategy, which may also affect renters.

Quelle Bilder: (I) Eidgenössische Steuerverwaltung: https://www.estv2.admin.ch/stp/notizen/stp-notizen-2025-verteilwirkungen-emw-de.pdf
(II) Watson.ch : https://www.watson.ch/schweiz/daten/981378073-der-mittelstand-in-der-schweiz-noetiges-einkommen-und-entwicklung

Conclusion

The reform improves a dysfunctional system. It is not perfect, but overall it represents a clear improvement over the status quo. In the short term, compensatory financing will be necessary. Volt will advocate for the most socially fair solution possible so that non-beneficiaries, especially low-income households, are not burdened further.

The removal of deductions for energy-efficiency renovations should be purposefully replaced with effective subsidies. The reform is not an endpoint, but a first step toward a tax system that is not only effective, but also makes homeownership what it should be: a reliable form of retirement security. Along the way, numerous problems remain to be solved, many of them underlying Switzerland’s low homeownership rate, which needs to increase significantly.

Sources

Bundesgesetz über den Systemwechsel beider Wohneigentumsbesteuerung, admin.ch (Link)
Bundesbeschluss über die kantonalen Liegenschaftssteuern auf Zweitliegenschaften, admin.ch (Link)
Wie die hohe Privatverschuldung in der Schweiz einzuordnen ist, Avenir Suisse (Link)
Liste der Länder nach Haushaltsverschuldung, Wikipedia (Link)
The real effects of household debt in the short and long run, BIS (Link) 
Wie die hohe Privatverschuldung in der Schweiz einzuordnen ist, Avenir Suisse (Link)
Hypothekar- und Immobilienmarkt: Aktuelle Entwicklungen bergen Risiken für die Finanzstabilität, Universität Luzern, Seite 9-10. 
Do People Respond to the Mortgage Interest Deduction? Quasi-experimental Evidence from Denmark, American Economic Journal:Economic Policy; 2021 (Link) 
Housing Tenure Choice in Australia and the United States: Impacts of Alternative Subsidy Policies, Real Estate Economics; 2006 (Link)
Mortgage Interest Deductions and Homeownership: An International Survey, Journal of Real Estate Literature rating (Link) 
Wirkung steuerlicher Anreize für energetische Gebäudesanierungen und mögliche Hemmnisse bei deren Finanzierung, UVEK S.36 (Link)
immobilien-schweiz-1Q25-d, Raiffeisen S. 23 (Link)
Siehe “Wer Profitiert” in unserem Factsheet
Einkommensmitte, BSF (Link)
Verteilungswirkungen einer Reform der Eigenmietwertbesteuerung, ESTV S. 6 (Link)
Siehe “Wer Profitiert” in unserem Factsheet + “Unklare finanzielle Auswirkungen”

After the first attempt at an electronic identity card (e-ID) was rejected by the Swiss people in 2021, we will now vote on a new, revised proposal in September. Unlike the previous version, the new e-ID will be issued and operated by the federal government, not by a private company. This creates trust and control in the solution. The e-ID serves as a simple, digital means of identity verification and can also be used as identification in everyday life when linked to your smartphone. A key security feature is that the e-ID is stored directly on your device. It cannot be easily transferred or stolen, as both the device and your passwords are required for access.

• Voluntary: Use of the e-ID is entirely voluntary. Those who do not need it do not have to use it. It offers opportunities for anyone who wants to simplify their digital dealings with public authorities.

• Infrastructure for more: The infrastructure that has been set up could also be used for other digital documents such as driving licences, health insurance cards or membership cards.

• Digitalisation push: E-ID is an important step towards the digitalisation of Switzerland, which could also drive forward future projects such as digital voting.

• High security standards: Security standards are high thanks to local storage on the user's own device and password protection.

Conclusion

The new e-ID offers a voluntary opportunity to advance digitalisation in Switzerland and make everyday life easier for many people. The revision has taken the security concerns raised in the last vote seriously, with the e-ID now being issued by the federal government and the data stored decentrally on the device. From a technical point of view, we are convinced by the solution, as it has been modelled on the example of digital pioneer Estonia, as we have been calling for for years.

Sources

Bildquelle: https://www.eid.admin.ch/de

The current situation in global politics is extraordinary and unprecedented. The more than 25-hour speech by a Democratic senator in the US, in which the clear opposition to Trump and his laws became visible, shows this in all clarity. Due to the US President's misguided behaviour, his numerous announcements to impose protective tariffs, invade democratic countries and seek a third term in office, the USA is currently experiencing a massive loss of reputation. All of the USA's allies are increasingly turning away from co-operation with the USA and are increasingly trying to become independent and reach agreements without the USA. Canada is reaching a trade agreement with Australia, Portugal and other NATO member states are not buying American F-35 fighter jets, the EU is trying harder to reach a trade agreement with India, Brazil is trading more with China - with the yen instead of the dollar - and some countries are discussing their own nuclear weapons.

And Switzerland? It bakes its own bread and tries to get around the European punitive tariffs out of pure opportunism and ignorance, as it is not a member of the EU. This attempt to circumvent the punitive tariffs shows above all a lack of solidarity and an unwillingness to strengthen co-operation with the EU. This strategy has clearly not worked. While Trump has imposed punitive tariffs of 20 per cent on imports from the EU, these are 31 per cent for Switzerland (with the exception of the pharmaceutical sector). In the impending trade war with the US, Switzerland must coordinate more closely with the EU to avoid being isolated. However, this strategy does not yet appear to be reflected in the Federal Council's reactions to the American tariffs. Volt fears that Switzerland is going down the wrong path in terms of foreign policy and is calling for closer cooperation with the EU.

Defence

Europe is arming itself, and massively so. A total of 800 billion euros is to be spent to ensure that the EU is fully capable of independent defence by 2030. Switzerland is already cooperating with the EU within the framework of the ‘Partnership for Peace’, but this cooperation should be greatly expanded. Together with Austria and Liechtenstein, Switzerland is a small patch of land in the middle of NATO member states, and compatibility of weapons systems is essential. It is also foreseeable that there will be endeavours to create a European army, as demonstrated by the recent demands of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. Switzerland should also get involved here and consider cooperating. In addition, Switzerland should finally show solidarity with Ukraine and authorise arms deliveries. With Ukraine, the entire European continent has been attacked by imperialist Russia - including Switzerland. Allowing arms deliveries would be the least Switzerland could do; we are not even talking about the consistent pursuit of oligarchs' money in Switzerland.

It is clear that all these endeavours clash with Swiss neutrality. However, they only clash with the current definition of neutrality as used by the isolationist, anti-European part of Swiss politics. However, Swiss neutrality can also be reinterpreted. For example, it is perfectly legitimate to join a defence alliance for one's own protection and to supply weapons to a democratic country if it is attacked. The long-neutral countries of Sweden and Finland have also reconsidered their foreign policy and joined NATO. Switzerland could also move in this direction - by cooperating more closely with the EU in matters of defence.

Economy

Trump's tariffs will also hit Switzerland hard. The era of globalised trade, at least with the USA, is over. Trying to negotiate short-term special conditions with the USA now is counterproductive. The focus should be on moving closer to the EU economically and finally finalising the negotiations on Bilaterals III. The agreement reached by the social partners on wage protection is an encouraging step.

In the short term, the adoption of Bilaterals III is an absolute must in order to stabilise relations with the EU and preserve Swiss prosperity in the midst of a looming trade war. In the medium term, however, Switzerland should make strong efforts to join the European Economic Area (EEA). At present, Switzerland is the only member of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) that is not also a member of the EEA. An improvement here would be fundamental for the security of Swiss foreign trade and the general exchange with the EU. In the long term, however, the elephant in the room should be discussed: Switzerland's accession to the European Union. Even if this measure will not be popular in Switzerland, it should still be discussed. In such extraordinary times as these, old self-conceptions break down and new conventions are created. Switzerland is a valuable part of Europe and should recognise this in the impending formation of a bloc in order to avoid becoming isolated.

Conclusion

No matter how much Switzerland tries to bury its head in the sand, the new world order is already here: there is war in Europe - since the illegal occupation of the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea by Russia in 2014 and the subsequent fighting in eastern Ukraine, Trump is questioning the principles of NATO and world trade and Switzerland is standing idly by. Meanwhile, Europe is reacting and, despite all its differences, is moving closer together and planning increased cooperation, particularly in the area of defence. This is precisely where Switzerland should start - and join in. Because Europe will gain weight globally, with or without Switzerland. However, we now have the opportunity to jump on the bandwagon, join in and help shape the Europe of the future.

Sources

https://www.srf.ch/news/international/rede-gegen-donald-trump-rekordrede-demokratischer-senator-spricht-ueber-25-stunden
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/31/world/trump-foreign-policy-trust.html
https://www.srf.ch/news/schweiz/vor-us-zollankuendigung-trumpf-gegen-trump-schweiz-betont-nicht-mitgliedschaft-in-der-eu
https://www.srf.ch/news/international/usa-und-die-zoelle-trumps-grosses-zollpaket-im-ueberblick
https://www.srf.ch/news/schweiz/medienkonferenz-zu-us-zoellen-so-reagiert-der-bundesrat-auf-die-us-zoelle
https://commission.europa.eu/topics/defence/future-european-defence_en
https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/de/home/aussenpolitik/internationale-organisationen/nato-partnerschaftfuerdenfrieden.html
https://www.politico.eu/article/spai-pedro-sanchez-calls-creation-european-army-military-budget/
https://voltschweiz.org/neuigkeiten/ukraine-waffenweitergabe
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-61397478
https://voltschweiz.org/neuigkeiten/volt-steht-hinter-dem-neuen-vertragspaket-zwischen-der-schweiz-und-der-europaeischen-union-bilaterale-3
https://www.srf.ch/news/schweiz/lohnschutz-kompromiss-spaltet-sozialpartner-unterstuetzen-lohnschutzpaket-mit-vorbehalten

“I got involved in Volt politics because I felt that we were in danger of losing Europe, which is the only political organisation that gives me hope. National politics have had their day, there's nothing new to look forward to. I don't feel that I've committed myself as a woman, but rather as a person, to help make Europe sustainable, and so much the better if I'm actually helping to increase parity in political life.” - Nadine L.

In Switzerland, only 19% of local councils are presided over by women, and the 2023 federal elections have reduced the proportion of women in the National Council from 42% to 38.5%. In seven cantons, not a single woman was elected. In the Council of States, the number of cantons represented solely by men has risen to eleven, and the proportion of women is 34.8%.

“I've been involved with Volt since I was 18, and I've been able to work my way up from my local section in Toulouse to the national office and stand as a candidate in three elections. This experience has given me confidence and a better understanding of politics, including its less glamorous aspects such as the lack of engaged women. I think that every party needs to take action to promote gender equality internally, beyond political rhetoric.”- Élise M.

History is full of talented women who have dared and led the way. Today, too many women don't take the plunge, or don't dare to take the plunge, into politics.

“When I got involved in politics late in life, the trigger was ‘what kind of world will my grandchildren live in?‘ ... Volt's major objective is for the medium to long term, and corresponds well to their adult life. But we need to start working on it now.  In my opinion, my motivation is marked by femininity... It has to do with passing on to others, starting with the protection of my dear ones, rather than a purely financial inheritance, which is generally a more masculine commitment, of course.”- Christine G.

Apprehension, lack of moral, financial and logistical support, as well as psychological or educational barriers are all reasons why women still take a back seat today, even though they have the desire and the skills to play an active part in their country's political life.

“I entered politics because I want to bring my perspective to the construction of society. But where a man is simply a human being, I, as a woman, am always considered first and foremost as a woman. So I can't help but keep coming back to the theme of equality and being the person who should represent ‘women’. But I'm not just a woman and I certainly can't represent all women. We need many female voices to make the diversity of women and society in general visible.”- Paula H.

In our daily lives, we see both women and men encouraging, advising, debating, innovating, reflecting, proposing, organising, making use of diplomacy and self-control. Having a sense of commitment, being a good listener, being a team player, being strategic, resilience, honesty, eloquence... are all human qualities and are not linked to gender.

“Getting involved in politics is difficult, but essential, especially when you're under-represented and have little say. I chose Volt because this party embodies my values, but also because it really applies parity and shared leadership. Here, equality isn't just a promise, it's a reality built every day.” - Valérie C.

There are still many barriers to women's participation in politics, and we are clear about the battles still to be fought. But on this 8 March 2025, we all want to say: women have their place in the discussions and in the co-construction of our society.

“I got involved in politics so that women would be represented, visible and listened to. I've had enough of this pseudo-parity where male politicians speak on behalf of all citizens, including women. I've also joined a European party to ‘duplicate’ parity practices at European level or in other European countries if they are relevant to the French context.”- Christine P.

We want to send out a strong message and an appeal:

We encourage all women to get involved in politics, whatever the nature and degree of that involvement, and we encourage those around them to help them along the way and support them in their actions!

We call on all political parties to take action to include more women and make it easier for them to get involved!

“My political involvement came quite naturally to complement my involvement with associations at the time of the legislative elections in June 2024, because I wanted to work to see what I believe in become a reality: a federal Europe. I'm not getting involved as a woman, but as an individual with convictions, projects, skills and a lot to learn, just like everyone else. You don't have to be afraid of difficulties along the way, you simply have to surround yourself with caring people who have the same aspirations for our society. At Volt I've found a place where women are given the space, the support and the resources they need to fully develop and flourish in politics. I'm committed to strengthening this dynamic because I believe that it's by working together, and not against each other, that we can make real progress.”- Elisa C.

We've started by reinforcing parity in the public arena: electoral lists, round tables, the media… It's time to go one step further, by creating real spaces for inclusion, expression and projects for women (within parties, in decision-making bodies, etc.), subsidies dedicated to projects by and for women, and reinforced communication with the outside world. Women need to have a more general and systematic presence on the political scene.

“For several years, my life went along to the rhythm of: kids, work, sleep. Then my kids became teenagers. And then there were municipal elections. And the [French] Parity Act. So I raised my hand, to find out what was being done with my taxes and also to propose actions for our young people. I thus got into politics because of, or thanks to, the Parity Act. And I wasn't disappointed! Since then, I've never stopped being involved in politics, according to my possibilities and aspirations. One thing is certain for me now: I no longer wish to leave it to others to decide my future, or that of my children.” - Anne G.

It's high time our public policies were made by and for all our fellow citizens.

After the events of the past days, it is clear that that American plan entails rewarding Russia for an imperial war, blackmailing and lecturing Ukraine on its sovereignty, and expecting Europe to finance, and have its own troops defend a peace deal that Europe doesn’t participate in.

We don’t need more speeches about ‘‘wake up calls’’, but concrete actions to create a different reality. Because the road to autocracy is paved by inaction. European leaders gathered at an emergency European Council today will have to give a convincing answer to one question:

Can the European Union stand up for itself or will it be bullied into irrelevance?

The first step is to face the fact that the current US administration is hostile to the very idea of the transatlantic alliance. But luckily, we have the means to take care of ourselves.

We need to realise our own strength and understand that Europe, with 20 times the economy and 4 times the population of Russia, has all the means to defend Ukraine and itself.

We need to fully realise that Russia will attack EU and NATO Member States if given the chance. We need to immediately build up the capacity to defend ourselves.

This is bigger than us. From Canada to Japan, liberal democracies face aggression from autocrats and US pressure on multilateralism. We need to band together and push back.

A concrete plan to restore peace in Europe:

• First, put Ukraine in the strongest possible position. 

  • Seize 300 billion of Russian frozen assets, investing them in Ukraine’s defence;

  • Double existing aid an send a massive new military aid package;

  • Offer direct support on the ground, including training and non-combat tasks;

• Then, reach a just, comprehensive and sustainable peace. 

  • Demand a seat at the table in any negotiations for Ukraine and Europe;

  • Refuse to recognise any loss of territory; no normalisation of ties with Putin;

  • Provide meaningful security guarantees, through a European military presence;

• Finally, unlock Europe’s potential through Ukrainian success. 

  • Reconstruct the Ukrainian economy, also offering huge benefits to the EU;

  • Accelerate EU integration of Ukraine, even before full membership;

  • Make an equitable deal on Ukrainian resources for a shared green transition;

This challenge does not end in Ukraine. Europe needs to be able to defend its own interests, push back against foreign interference, and forge closer ties with other liberal democracies.

Prepare Europe to deter a Russian attack

• Fund the 500 billion euro defence investment gap, reaching at least 3% spending targets through joint funding, and invest it in a European way to maximise economies of scale;

• Jointly procure all the necessary capabilities, by establishing an EU Defence Industry Authority as called for in the Draghi report, standardising fragmented equipment types; 

• Create sufficient forces to fulfil existing NATO targets, including by establishing multinational Eurocorps, which smaller Member States cannot achieve on their own;

Leverage the power of our society and alliances

• Respond to potential US tariffs and private citizens interfering in our democracies with sanctions and anti-coercion tools we already have, particularly for big tech; 

• Forge closer ties with Canada and other liberal democracies who seek to preserve the rules based international order, including by establishing new trade agreements;

• Strengthen our neighbourhood by offering a ‘’more for more’’ approach to pro-EU populations in Georgia, Moldova and the Western Balkans while sanctioning autocrats.

Europeans have their destiny in their own hands. No one is going to do it for us. The good news is that we can; what we need now is the willingness to act.

The concept of Planetary Boundaries was developed under the assumption that we as humanity only have one planet at our disposal. Since 2009, this has been the most widely used scientific framework for relating human resource use to the capacity of our environment to produce new resources and reabsorb waste. For this purpose, limits are defined in nine ecological dimensions which, if exceeded, pose an acute threat to the natural basis of human life. Worldwide, the limits have already been exceeded in the areas of climate change, biodiversity, nitrogen and phosphorus production, land use and the introduction of new substances. The environmental responsibility initiative aims to link Switzerland's use of resources to these planetary boundaries and thus guarantee that Switzerland plays its part in protecting the environment.

The Environmental Responsibility Initiative

The responsible use of resources is to be added to the Federal Constitution as a new principle of the economic order (Art. 94a BV: Framework of the economy). Switzerland's use of resources should be linked to the planetary boundaries, which means that Switzerland should only consume as many resources as it is entitled to in proportion to its share of the world's population and the planetary boundaries. In the same sense, the emission of pollutants will be limited to the amount that the environment can break down on its own. At the latest ten years after the adoption of the new article, Switzerland would have to comply with its share of the planetary boundaries, particularly in the six areas of climate change, biodiversity, water consumption, land use and nitrogen and phosphorus input. The Confederation and the cantons should be responsible for implementing the new economic principle and guarantee that the measures are socially acceptable. 

Volt's Position

Volt stands for ambitious climate and environmental policy. Our goal is to comply with the Paris Climate Agreement and limit global warming to 1.5 degrees. We are fighting for climate neutrality by 2040, in the energy sector even by 2035. The current measures in Switzerland are not sufficient to fulfill our mission, which is why we support the Environmental Responsibility Initiative. The initiative is the ambitious step we need if we are to reduce Switzerland's environmental impact sufficiently in the short and medium term to play our part in respecting planetary boundaries and take responsibility for the costs and damage we cause. 

We are aware of the social and economic challenges that a rapid transition to environmental neutrality entails. Firstly, a change in consumer habits and rising prices will be unavoidable, as effective climate and environmental protection requires the internalization of the costs of environmental damage. The initiative therefore stipulates that corporations and wealthy people should be made more responsible and that the impact on lower-income people should be cushioned. In order to guarantee the social compatibility of the initiative, we call for the necessary involvement of all stakeholders and special consideration for vulnerable groups when implementing the initiative.  

Secondly, strong regulatory and incentive measures will have to be adopted to ensure rapid compliance with the environmental limits, which represents an encroachment on economic freedom. However, we believe that this is justified in view of the seriousness of the climate crisis. We also see clear opportunities in the transition to greater sustainability. In addition to the environmental benefits, timely investment in essential economic and social change will result in significant cost savings. Climate change is already costing society billions of francs every year and damaging the economy, which is destroying its own foundations. It is five times more expensive not to protect the climate than to invest in time and reduce environmental damage.  The economy also needs to be able to plan for the transition. The CO2 Act was already supported by the majority of the business community, as it created a suitable framework and equal market rules for all economic players. The ten-year period guarantees the necessary commitment, as well as the swift implementation of government restructuring measures and the adaptation of legal framework conditions. With timely investments, we can secure Switzerland a competitive advantage in new sustainable markets and the corresponding employment opportunities, innovations and export opportunities. Climate protection means sustainable economic growth and competition, not necessarily a loss of prosperity.

Sources

Ressourcenverbrauch Schweiz, bafu.admin.ch
One Planet Ansätze (PDF, 10 MB, 28.11.2017)
Initiativtext — Umweltverantwortungsinitiative
A bold strategy to meet the Paris Agreement 1.5° limit – Volt Europa
Botschaft zur Umweltverantwortungsinitiative, fedlex.admin.ch
Ja, Umweltschutz ist teuer
Klimawandel - Je länger wir warten, desto teurer wird es - Wissen - SZ.de
Wandel braucht einen Rahmen | PwC Schweiz
Wirtschaftliche Chancen durch Klimaschutz
Botschaft zur Umweltverantwortungsinitiative, fedlex.admin.ch

After long and intensive negotiations, Switzerland and the European Union (EU) have agreed on a new package to regulate their relations. The existing bilateral agreements have formed the basis of cooperation for over 20 years: in 2000, a package of agreements was concluded under the name ‘Bilaterals 1’, which since then has enabled the free movement of goods, capital and services in addition to the free movement of persons. This was followed in 2004 by a further nine agreements in the ‘Bilaterals 2’ package, with which we joined Schengen/Dublin and deepened cooperation with the EU in various areas. However, these bilateral agreements have eroded as they can no longer be updated and therefore no longer correspond to the current framework conditions. 

In order to close this gap and make relations fit for the future, the two partners have worked on a new package of agreements in over 190 meetings. The visit of EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to Bern last Friday marked the successful conclusion of these negotiations.  

‘Today is a day of great joy,’ said von der Leyen in Bern. ‘This agreement between the European Union and Switzerland is historic. Not only does it strengthen the lasting partnership between us, the strengthened bond is also of great importance in the wider context, as we are providing joint responses to global realities that we all have to deal with’

What is included in the package?

The new package includes an update of five existing agreements that grant Switzerland access to the EU internal market: Air transport, land transport, free movement of persons, conformity assessment and trade in agricultural products. It also includes new agreements on electricity, food safety and health. Switzerland also declared its willingness to examine a continuation of the Swiss contribution to cohesion within the EU as part of the negotiation package. With this contribution, Switzerland supports economic and social development in the EU member states. Institutional issues such as the dynamic adoption of law or dispute settlement are defined separately in all agreements.

The most important points of the new negotiation package at a glance:

• Free movement of persons: The agreement on the free movement of persons will be modernised and adapted to the Free Movement Directive (UBRL). Switzerland will now have to treat all EU citizens equally. Until now, for example, different criteria for entry or different tuition fees at universities and universities of applied sciences applied depending on the EU country of origin.
  Switzerland and the EU have also agreed on a safeguard clause for immigration. In the event of ‘serious economic or social problems’, a joint committee of both parties will decide whether Switzerland will take protective measures.

• Dynamic adoption of legislation: Switzerland undertakes to adopt relevant EU legislation in the areas covered by existing agreements and to adapt to legal developments. The democratic processes, including the possibility of a referendum, remain intact. However, if Switzerland does not wish to adapt, the EU can then decide on compensatory measures.

• Court of arbitration and ECJ: An independent court of arbitration will be set up to settle disputes. If this court is unable to reach an agreement between the two partners in a particular case, the matter must be referred to the European Court of Justice.

• Enhanced cooperation: Switzerland will participate in the EU internal electricity market. It will also participate in EU programmes on food safety, research (Horizon Europe), Euratom, Digital Europe, EU4Health, EU space research and Erasmus+.

Points of criticism

Such a broad treaty package only works with compromises from all sides. While the EU accommodates us in various areas such as the safeguard clause, Switzerland must also come closer to the EU in certain areas. In these areas, either a compromise has already been found with the EU itself, or the Federal Council and Parliament will have to find protective measures domestically in the next phase. Here are some of the points of criticism that were also discussed by us in Volt:

• Wage protection: One point of criticism of the new negotiation package concerns wage protection, more specifically the accompanying measures (FlaM). Trade unions in particular fear wage dumping and a deterioration in the wage level of Swiss workers. The EU initially wanted the current eight-day registration period to be completely abolished. However, the two parties have agreed that it should only be reduced to four days and Switzerland has also been guaranteed a non-regression clause, i.e. that wage protection measures will always be maintained at least at this level, even if EU wage protection deteriorates in the future.
  One unresolved issue that still needs to be resolved domestically is the expense regulations: while Swiss companies are bound by the Swiss expense regulations, EU companies only have to comply with their local rules, not the stricter Swiss rules. In our opinion, a domestic political solution still needs to be found to prevent wage dumping.

• Cohesion contribution: Switzerland currently pays around 130 million a year in cohesion funds to the EU to support financially weaker EU countries. From 2030, this figure is to rise to around 350 million per year. We at Volt consider this contribution to be appropriate, as Switzerland benefits massively from the EU internal market and should therefore also pay its fair share. By way of comparison, the EEA country Norway pays 400 million annually. 

• Liberalisation of rail transport: The new agreements will lead to liberalisation in various areas. One of our concerns was the area of rail transport: we at Volt do not want to jeopardise the best practice of the synchronised timetable. Fortunately, however, the EU has made concessions to Switzerland and so, despite liberalisation, the synchronised timetable continues to have priority on the railways and Swiss tickets and season tickets must also be valid on journeys operated by EU transport companies.

What happens next?

Next, the texts will be finalised by both sides and the Federal Council will hold talks with the cantons and the economic and social partners on the domestic measures. From 2026, the agreements will then be submitted to the Swiss Parliament and the European Commission will also request the constent from the European Parliament. 

According to current information, the package will be divided into four separate federal resolutions in Switzerland: The three new agreements separately and then the stabilisation of the existing agreements. Depending on the outcome, there would be up to four votes, which could take until 2028.

Our opinion

The new negotiation package marks an important step in relations between Switzerland and the EU. We must finally stabilise, further develop and strengthen relations with our neighbouring countries and most important partners. This package is tailor-made for Switzerland, and the EU is approaching us on many points. Accordingly, Switzerland is now being asked to make compromises that we believe are more than fair. 

The public discourse surrounding this package is already difficult, as the billionaire opponents are already beating the disinformation drum and shouting bogus arguments such as ‘subjugation before foreign judges’. That is why it is crucial that all pro-European forces get together and support this package. Yes, the package has justified points of criticism, which must now be tackled domestically with pragmatism and a willingness to compromise on all sides. Nevertheless, the advantages massively outweigh any disadvantages. 

Volt's vision for Europe aims to build a European federal republic in the long term, in which Switzerland will also find its place. We want a more democratic Europe that stands for freedom, cooperation and progress. And even if this goal is still a long way off, we are still fighting every day in over 30 countries to gradually move closer to this vision. We in Switzerland have our own path here, which is quite different from our neighbours; nevertheless, the goal is the same. And that's why we at Volt are fully behind this ‘Bilaterals 3’ package and see it as a key step in the right direction. The referendum campaign will be tough, but we are ready. And you?

Sources

Überblick bilateraler Weg, Eidgenössisches Departement für auswärtige Angelegenheiten EDA
Die bilateralen Abkommen Schweiz – EU und die Übernahme von EU-Recht, Universität Zürich
Bilaterale Verträge, Europäische Bewegung Schweiz
Beziehungen zur EU: Der Bundesrat legt Stossrichtung für Verhandlungspaket fest, Bundesrat
Verhandlungen abgeschlossen: EU und Schweiz stärken ihre Partnerschaft, Europäische Kommission
Die Schweiz und die EU schliessen die Verhandlungen ab, SWI swissinfo.ch
The Commission and Switzerland complete negotiations to bring the EU-Switzerland bilateral relationship to a new level, European Comission
Questions and answers on the broad package of measures to deepen and expand the EU-Switzerland relationship, European Comission
Der Bundesrat nimmt Kenntnis vom materiellen Abschluss der Verhandlungen zwischen der Schweiz und der EU, Bundesrat
Die Schweiz und die Europäische Union würdigen das Ergebnis der Verhandlungen, Bundesrat
Der Bundesrat spaltet das Vertragspaket mit der EU auf, SRF
Parteispitzen zur Paketlösung mit der EU und zum CS-Bericht, SRF Arena

The rental landscape in Switzerland reflects the living reality of a large part of the population. While homeowners make up the majority in other parts of Europe, over 60% of households here live in rental or cooperative housing. Thus, tenant protection is of great importance. In a tight housing market, it is crucial to maintain a balance between the interests of tenants and landlords. However, the two new proposals on rental law threaten to loosen important protective mechanisms for tenants.

Termination Due to Personal Use

Personal use allows property owners to quickly reclaim a rented apartment or commercial space for their own use when needed and to terminate the rental agreement. This typically occurs in one of three scenarios:

1. Firstly, when purchasing a property, the new owner is allowed to terminate the lease with the statutory notice period of three months for apartments and six months for commercial spaces—even if the existing rental agreement specifies a longer notice period.

2. Secondly, owners may also terminate the lease for personal use during the three-year blocking period that can apply following a legal dispute with tenants.

3. Thirdly, personal use plays a role in relation to the so-called tenant extension in hardship cases. This allows tenants to remain in the apartment or commercial space longer after a termination.

The proposal allows property owners to assert personal use more easily by relaxing the requirement to demonstrate urgency. In the future, it will be sufficient to prove a "significant and current" personal need, rather than a "pressing" one.

Volt views the changes regarding personal use with concern. We acknowledge that property owners have the right to use their properties; however, the proposed law goes too far and significantly weakens the termination protection for tenants. One of the greatest dangers is that tenants may lose their homes more quickly and easily during times of housing shortages, which could pose an existential threat, especially to low-income households. This proposal also poses a risk for businesses, as they cannot rely on the contractually agreed notice period, particularly during a change of ownership, and may suddenly have to search for new commercial spaces within six months. Especially in urban areas, where affordable housing is already scarce and low-income individuals as well as small businesses are being displaced, this loosening of tenant protection would further exacerbate the situation.

Adjustments to Subletting

Under the new regulation, tenants must submit written requests and obtain qualified consent from landlords in order to sublet their apartment or parts of it, such as a shared room. Additionally, subletting agreements that last longer than two years may be outright rejected. If the tenant violates the obligations related to subletting, the landlord has the right to issue a written warning. If this warning is unsuccessful, the rental agreement with the primary tenant can be terminated with a notice period of 30 days.

In our view, subletting is an important tool that allows many tenants to flexibly adapt to their living circumstances, whether during a temporary stay abroad or for communal living with housemates. Particularly in increasingly expensive cities, it is crucial for retaining affordable housing. While Volt supports certain measures, such as the requirement for written agreements, and acknowledges that action must be taken against the Airbnb crisis, the entire proposal is sidelined by the draconian notice period of 30 days following an unsuccessful warning from the landlord. We do not see how this proposal addresses the issues at hand; rather, it seems to exacerbate them.

Volt's Position

In our view, both proposals do not provide viable solutions to the challenges of the Swiss housing market. They facilitate a reduction in the housing supply and the turnover of tenants, both of which further drive up the already rising rental prices. They offer landlords only superficial solutions to concrete problems and weaken the protection of many individuals and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Therefore, Volt advocates a firm NO to both legislative proposals on 24 November 2024.

Sources

Die reiche Schweiz – ein Mieterland, SwissInfo
Mietwohnungen, Bundesamt für Statistik
Mietrecht: Kündigung wegen Eigenbedarfs, ch.ch
Mietrecht: Kündigung wegen Eigenbedarfs, admin.ch
Miete: Untermiete, ch.ch

The fact that health insurance companies and health insurance premiums are a major problem in Switzerland is nothing new. For example, shortly before the 2023 National Council elections, the healthcare system was ranked third behind ‘Immigration & asylum’ and ‘Environment & energy’ among the most important issues for voters. It should therefore be clear that there is an urgent need for action on this issue, which will be addressed by the amendment to the Federal Health Insurance Act (KVG). However, a small reform alone will not be enough to solve all the problems in the healthcare system and prevent a further rise in health insurance premiums.

The proposal in brief

One solution is to adjust the distribution of treatment costs between insurers and the cantons, as proposed by the amendment to the Federal Health Insurance Act (KVG). This would mean that benefits would no longer be divided differently between insurers and the cantons depending on the type of treatment (outpatient, inpatient, nursing care) and financing would be standardised. In future, the cantons would bear a quarter of the costs, while the insured parties would bear the rest, i.e. three quarters.

Reasoning

The parliamentary majority hopes that the bill will eliminate disincentives in the healthcare system. At present, it is not very attractive for health insurance companies to promote outpatient treatment, as they have to bear the full costs themselves, even though this would often be cheaper and more medically appropriate. The reform aims to eliminate this disincentive. Now, the most sensible and overall most favourable treatment method is to be chosen instead of the most favourable method for the health insurance companies. In addition, the bill is intended to achieve massive cost savings. For example, this is to be realised by promoting outpatient treatment, which is cheaper than inpatient treatment due to the short hospital stay. Annual savings of up to CHF 400 million are expected, but the exact extent of the savings potential is difficult to estimate, as the specific future behaviour of the financing players, i.e. the cantons and health insurance companies, is key here. In addition, premium payers are to be relieved. By standardising the financing of services, the cantons undertake to keep their share of financing constant. This is intended to counter the trend of declining cantonal funding shares in recent years. It is hoped that premiums will not continue to rise.

However, the bill has the effect of increasing the power of health insurance companies in the healthcare system even further. By increasing the share of the health insurance funds in the financing of care services, they are effectively gaining influence. At the same time, the health insurance companies will gain greater influence in areas in which they were previously less powerful, such as retirement and nursing homes and long-term care. There is therefore a risk that the healthcare system will become more profit-orientated due to the influence of the health insurance companies. However, it should be noted here that health insurance companies already have a great deal of influence in the healthcare system, and this will not be significantly increased with the proposal or reduced if the proposal is rejected. However, the health insurance companies' position of power should certainly be addressed.

Volt's position

Volt agrees with the arguments put forward by those in favour of the reform: the elimination of disincentives in the healthcare system is key. The advantages of eliminating disincentives, planning security, savings potential and relief for premium payers outweigh the downsides of the proposal. However, Volt is aware that the bill is not perfect and that there is a great need for further action in the healthcare sector. For example, Volt is calling for the introduction of a uniform health insurance provider to force the remaining private health insurance companies to become more efficient. The single health insurance fund should also make it possible to negotiate fair drug prices. These reforms could greatly reduce the burden on premium payers and the health insurance system in general.

Sources

Eidgenössische Wahlen 2023
Volksabstimmung zur Änderung des Bundesgesetzes über die Krankenversicherung (KVG) (Einheitliche Finanzierung der Leistungen)
KVG-Revision mit schweren Nebenwirkungen: EFAS : vpod/ssp
Gesundheitswesen – Volt Schweiz

Road traffic generates significant costs for society and our environment. The more people use cars, the greater the strain on the immediate surroundings and the emission of greenhouse gases. Expanding the national roads is intended to increase road capacity and reduce traffic jams, but the increase in road capacity primarily creates the wrong incentive for road users. Another overload of the roads is inevitable, this time with even more road users. Therefore, we at Volt are against the federal decree on the 2023 expansion step for national roads and instead call for more investment in public transport.

Day by day, we move from one place to another. Over 65% of trips in Switzerland are made by car. Especially during rush hours, so many people are on the roads that traffic jams have become almost a daily occurrence. This traffic, particularly passenger traffic with cars, coaches, and motorcycles, was responsible for nearly a third (32.9%) of Switzerland's greenhouse gas emissions in 2022. If we want to achieve our legal climate goal of reducing emissions in the transport sector by 57% by 2040 and by 100% by 2050, we cannot afford to generate even more traffic by building additional tunnels and lanes.

The Traffic Congestion Issue

The trigger for the project was the increase in traffic congestion hours on Swiss national roads observed over the past few years. According to the Federal Roads Office (FEDRO), road usage and the population have grown at the same rate over the last few decades. A particularly sharp increase in road usage has been noted on the national roads. The number of vehicles has also continued to rise, even disproportionately to the population. Overall, this has led to a growing strain on the national roads, and congestion hours have nearly doubled since 2016. In addition to longer travel times, traffic congestion also leads to higher fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions.

In Switzerland, isolated nature reserves mainly help to conserve biodiversity. However, the lack of connection between these areas reduces their effectiveness. Still waters, shores and wetlands, and flowing waters are especially affected by the biodiversity crisis. Progress in water protection is urgently needed.

The 2023 Expansion Step for National Roads

Six sections of national roads that are particularly affected by traffic congestion are to be relieved by the 2023 expansion step. Additional lanes are to be added on the routes Wankdorf-Schönbühl (BE), Schönbühl-Kirchberg (BE), and Le Vengeron-Coppet-Nyon (GE/VD). Furthermore, the Rosenberg Tunnel (SG) and the Fäsenstaub Tunnel (SH) are to be expanded with new tunnel tubes, and a new Rhine Tunnel is to be built in Basel. The total costs amount to at least 5 billion Swiss francs. Most projects can only start in a few years' time and would not be completed until 2040 at the earliest.

Volt's Position

For Volt, climate and environmental protection are top priorities. To meet the legal climate targets, road traffic must emit 57% less greenhouse gases by 2040 than in 1990. Volt also calls for an 80% reduction in greenhouse gases by 2030 compared to 2019 and a ban on combustion engines by 2035 to comply with the Paris Climate Agreement., In addition to climate damage, road traffic leads to numerous other environmental impacts and societal costs, including soil sealing due to the asphalting of forests and agricultural land, groundwater contamination and environmental damage caused by tire wear, and healthcare costs from accidents and air pollution. Instead of creating incentives for increased car use by expanding national roads, we should encourage people to switch to more sustainable modes of transport.

Volt continues to advocate addressing the root causes rather than just the symptoms. The planned capacity increases for national roads would not solve the traffic congestion problem, but only delay it for a few years and shift it to other areas. Since all the routes lead into cities, increased congestion and thus higher noise and exhaust pollution in urban areas are expected. A medium-term expansion of national roads does little to contribute to the urgently needed restructuring and capacity expansion of the transport sector towards more sustainable alternatives. Switzerland already has a very good public transport system, which is also reaching its capacity limits. The budget for the expansion of national roads could be used more efficiently and sustainably to expand this system.

Sources

Mobilitätsverhalten der Bevölkerung 2021, bfs (S. 27)
Bafu.admin Treibhausgasemissionen des Verkehrs
BBl 2022 2403 - Bundesgesetz über die Ziele im Klimaschutz | Fedlex
Bericht Verkehrsfluss Nationalstrassen 2023, astra (S. 8)
Strassenfahrzeuge – Bestand, Motorisierungsgrad
Bericht Verkehrsfluss Nationalstrassen 2023, astra (S. 25)
Impact of congestion on greenhouse gas emissions for road transport in Mumbai metropolitan region - ScienceDirect
BBl 2022 2403 - Bundesgesetz über die Ziele im Klimaschutz | Fedlex
Fairer regulations for polluting ways of transport – Volt Europa
A bold strategy to meet the Paris Agreement 1.5° limit – Volt Europa
Botschaft zum Ausbauschritt 2023 für die Nationalstrassen
Externe Kosten und Nutzen des Verkehrs

Volt is a pan-European movement and political party operating in over 30 countries in Europe. We believe that cooperation between countries is the key to solving the challenges we face today: whether it’s fighting against the climate crisis, protecting the idea of liberal Democracy, or ensuring a fair healthcare system for everyone.

Volt acts on the local, regional, national, and European level.  Each of these levels plays a unique role in our daily lives and this is exactly our strength – being active and organised at every level all over Europe inside and outside the EU - in short:  everywhere where the decisions are made that affect the lives of all citizens of Europe.  With our pan-European approach we aim to build bridges between our societies by fighting discrimination of all sorts, by bringing in best practices from all over Europe and by working towards our long term vision of a Federal Republic of Europe.

Collaborating across borders and communities

Between Switzerland and Kosovo is a special bond. Being one of the first countries to recognise its independence in 2008, Switzerland demonstrated its strong support for the young nation and played a significant role in Kosovo's international standing and its path to European integration. Switzerland has also been involved in peacekeeping efforts in Kosovo and has invested in various sectors of Kosovo such as infrastructure, energy, and agriculture. The Albanian diaspora in Switzerland is one of the biggest in Europe and has played a crucial role in promoting economic ties between the two countries. They often filled labour shortages in various sectors of the Swiss economy, particularly in construction, agriculture, and hospitality. Also by establishing successful businesses in Switzerland they contributed to the Swiss economy creating jobs. 

The Albanian diaspora has been a valuable asset to Switzerland economically but also culturally, bringing in new perspectives, traditions, and customs to the cultural diversity of Switzerland. EAZ, a Swiss-Albanian rapper and singer, has achieved significant success in the Swiss music scene -  to just name one. His song "Juicy" was the first Swiss-German title to climb the charts in Germany in the last 50 years. Also the film industry gained a lot with Swiss-Albanian filmmakers. The yearly Kino Kosova film festival has added a lot to the cultural life in Switzerland building bridges between the two countries by exploring themes of identity, migration and the Albanian experience. And last but not least, also the Swiss Sports industry has gained a lot from Albanian migration. Football players like Xherdan Shaqiri and Granit Xhaka became indispensable for the Swiss national football team. 

While the Albanian diaspora has made significant contributions to Swiss society, it has also faced various challenges. The conservative part of Switzerland still treats  members of the Albanian diaspora and their descendents as outsiders, with Albanian youth still facing prejudices in their daily lives, ranging from slurs or straight up discrimination in areas such as housing, education, and employment.These discriminatory experiences can lead to feelings of not belonging and alienation for some members of the diaspora, as balancing Albanian and Swiss identities can be a challenge for some. Others have successfully integrated into Swiss society and overcome these difficulties.

Addressing these issues is one integral part of the collaboration of Volt Kosova and Volt Switzerland: Volt strives for inclusion and equality across all of Europe, which is why we want to bring awareness to this situation. Apart from the change of mind that needs to happen in Swiss heads, we also want for example to modernise the naturalisation process. This is why we are supporting the Democracy Initiative that aims to unify and lower the very high requirements for obtaining Swiss citizenship. Another aspect of our collaboration consists of bringing the Albanian diaspora closer to their country of origin by connecting our cause on a pan-European level. 

A shared goal of closer European integration

While Kosovo and Switzerland are both not in the EU, they are still integral parts of Europe, sharing a common cultural heritage and common history. While there are still a lot of differences in our respective relations with the rest of Europe, Volt Kosovo and Volt Switzerland both share the same goal of a closer European integration for their countries.

Switzerland, on one hand, already has strong ties to the EU and has greatly profited from it. But there are still a lot of policy areas where Switzerland needs even closer collaboration. A common energy supply system, for example, has become more important than ever, since the Russian aggression against Ukraine has started.  Also, the European educational programme Erasmus+ as well as the research programme Horizon2020 are indispensable for Swiss educational and research institutions. On top of that, the Swiss-EU relations are under constant attack by the isolationist forces that have dominated the discourse for the last 30 years in the country. This is why Switzerland is in dire need of a clearly pro-European stronghold. Volt Switzerland aims to become this stronghold, which is why we launched the Europe Initiative in April 2024 as part of the Europe Alliance, aiming for the relations to Europe to be added to the constitution.

Kosovo, on the other hand, is the youngest state on the continent and is surrounded by EU accession candidates. While Kosovo itself has also applied for an EU-membership before,  it has not received the official accession candidate status so far. Starting this year, Kosovar citizens can now travel freely without requiring a Visa into the Schengen Area, which has been a great success for the rights of Kosovars. It is obvious that only the European integration of Kosovo and the rest of the Balkan countries can guarantee long-term freedom, security and prosperity to the region. But also from the perspective of the EU it is crucial to bring home the countries of the West Balkan and therefore stabilising the EU’s front yard. Through Volt Kosova, we aim to bring Kosovo closer to its political and economic European integration, to support reforms that improve the lives of Kosovar citizens in the country and abroad and to create opportunities for young people in Kosovo by building a strong economy and a clean environment for future generations, so that they actually feel that they are a part of the continent.

Stay tuned for more

Being part of one and the same political party, Volt Switzerland and Volt Kosova naturally share the same values and structures. The explicit collaboration between the two Volt chapters makes sure that these common values and political goals of Volt are achieved by actively promoting the strong ties between the two countries and by raising awareness of the chances and challenges the Albanian community faces in Switzerland.

Together we are organising a flyering action to raise awareness of this collaboration at the Kino Kosova film festival that takes place in Bern from the 11th to 15th of September. We create collaborative posts on social media and organise an event for the international migration day, addressing the several issues faced by the Albanian diaspora as well as Kosovo itself.

What can you do?

We believe that each of us can make a difference. If you share Volt’s values, join us! You can contribute from Switzerland, Kosovo or wherever you are, either locally by being an active member of our pan-European community in your country of residence or through online involvement, by helping us with our campaigns and projects. You can follow us on social media and spread our content or become an active member and produce some content yourself for us. We are working on different policies in Kosovo and Switzerland. For more, check out our websites and connect with us on social media or in one of our local events. The future of a united Europe, where Kosovo and Switzerland are actively involved is in our hands. Together, we can make this future come true

Sources

Bilateral relations Switzerland–Kosovo; eda.admin.ch
Kosovo and Switzerland: an intense relationship; swissinfo.ch
EAZ - Juicy; Youtube.com
Kosovo in Switzerland, Switzerland in Kosovo; swissinfo.ch

Two years ago, Volt ran in its first election in Switzerland. In the municipal council elections in the city of Zurich, the party put up three candidates in two constituencies and was able to collect over 1,100 votes. This was a huge success for Volt, as they were still very small in Switzerland at the time and had to organise the election campaign with very limited resources.

A lot has happened in the past two years: Volt has grown and professionalised both in Switzerland and throughout Europe. The party now has over 150 elected officials at all levels throughout Europe and has also had five members elected into the European Parliament in June.
Volt has also expanded into other cities in Switzerland, professionalised itself and started to make its mark in Swiss politics. Volters are increasingly being recognised and approached on the street; people are starting to recognise the purple ‘new kid on the block’ in Switzerland too.

For this reason, Volt decided to take part in this year's city council elections in Bern. They are convinced that they can bring a breath of fresh air to the federal city with our unique, pan-European approach.
As a pan-European party, Volt can draw on more expertise out of its large international pool than any other. For example, all elected officials from across Europe meet several times a month to discuss the latest news and challenges from their respective parliaments and to network with each other. In this way, Volt wants to bring best practices and new ideas from all over Europe to Bern. After all, there are already a lot of solutions (or at least inspirations) around for many of our challenges if you just dare to look beyond the city wall. That's why the team in Bern decided on the slogan ‘A Bern that thinks beyond the horizon’.

For example, Volt wants to further expand the pedestrian and cycling infrastructure and, following the Dutch model, make it so safe that young and old can travel without worry. They also want to create mobility hubs where people can easily switch from one mode of transport to another. Following the example of Rotterdam, they also want to expand Park+Ride: People who leave their car on the periphery of the city and use public transport to get into the city can park for free. You can find more details on these and other items of our programme here: Stadtratswahlen Bern (German only)

Roland Müller, lead candidate for this election, says:

We are extremely pleased to be running here in Bern this year and to be able to showcase our unique, pan-European approach. We hope to inspire many people to think beyond the horizon, because we are deeply convinced that we can only solve our challenges together; in Bern, in Switzerland and throughout Europe.

For interview requests and further information, please contact us here:

Roland Müller
roland.mueller@volteuropa.org

In gardens, bees buzz; in forests, foxes meet deer, and the soil is full of activity. These lively examples show just a small part of our diverse biodiversity. However, this diversity is under pressure. Biodiversity includes not only animals but also plants, forests, and meadows, which give us oxygen and food. Considering the current biodiversity crisis, which affects our lives directly and indirectly, it is very important to protect it.

Causes of the Biodiversity Crisis

Volt believes in addressing problems at their roots. Treating symptoms may help in the short term but does not solve long-term and structural issues. Therefore, it is important to study the causes and effects of the biodiversity crisis and take targeted action.

According to the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN), biodiversity in Switzerland is in a very poor state. The 2016 Red List and the fast rate of global species extinction show this problem. Species are currently dying out 10-100 times faster than the average of the last ten million years., The main cause of this is human use of natural resources, especially intensive land use for agriculture, forestry, and urbanization. These activities lead to air, water, and soil pollution, which harm habitats. Global warming makes this situation even worse.

In Switzerland, isolated nature reserves mainly help to conserve biodiversity. However, the lack of connection between these areas reduces their effectiveness. Still waters, shores and wetlands, and flowing waters are especially affected by the biodiversity crisis. Progress in water protection is urgently needed.

Importance of Biodiversity

Biodiversity affects us in almost all areas of life, including food. A decline in pollinators would not only lead to lower crop yields but also significantly reduce the variety of our food. While cereals do not rely on pollinators, many fruits would be heavily affected. This would not cause food shortages in Switzerland but would greatly reduce our choices. 

Besides food variety, pollinators also help maintain biodiversity and ecosystem stability. This stability is crucial because ecosystems have tipping points, which, if reached, can cause the entire system to collapse., Strong biodiversity increases the resilience of ecosystems and protects us from potential catastrophic consequences.

The importance of biodiversity extends from protecting our ecosystems and thus our livelihoods to the drinking water supply and the variety of plants we can grow. Not protecting biodiversity means not protecting Switzerland's beautiful nature, our livelihood, and the future of the country. Therefore, urgent action is needed to address the existing deficit in Switzerland.

The Biodiversity Initiative

Switzerland has not yet achieved its biodiversity goals and international commitments. By 2020, 17% of the country's area should have been under protection, but it was only 13.4%. None of the biodiversity goals set in 2011 for 2020 were fully achieved. The Biodiversity Initiative aims to intensify nature conservation and ensure that the federal government and cantons provide the necessary areas, resources, and tools to protect biodiversity. Despite the wide scope for action, there is a risk that too few concrete measures will be taken. Additionally, the initiative could make it harder to expand renewable energy sources.

Volt's Position

We are aware of these risks. Nevertheless, healthy biodiversity is the foundation for long-term prosperity in Switzerland. It is possible to balance the expansion of renewable energy with nature conservation. This requires careful planning and possibly some compromises. The initiative does not call for Switzerland to become a large nature park but for a minimum level of nature conservation to be ensured. This is necessary not only in Switzerland but also across Europe. Therefore, Volt supports the protection of biodiversity in over 30 countries.

Sources:

• Biodiversität in der Schweiz

• Nationale Rote Liste 2016

• IPBES (A5)

• How much of the world’s food production is dependent on pollinators?

• Safeguarding pollinators and their values to human well-being

• Universal resilience patterns in complex networks

• The supply of multiple ecosystem services requires biodiversity across spatial scales

When asked whether Volt France was not competing with the Front Populaire (left-wing alliance) with its candidacy for the Front Européen and thus strengthening the extreme right in France, Marie-Julie explained that Volt had made the choice of responsibility by running in constituencies where the extreme right had little chance of making it to the second round of voting. Volt France has only one thousandth of the members and activists of the new Front Populaire and is running in 4% of constituencies with extremely limited financial resources. Volt's strategy for the elections can be summarised in two sentences: maximum votes for the pro-European forces in the first round, maximum votes against the extreme right in the second round.

"We see ourselves as progressive and pragmatic, always looking for the best solutions for citizens, in line with our values and far removed from extremes. With Volt, we are building this necessary alternative: We want to tackle our common problems at European level, including with non-EU countries such as Switzerland! That's why we at Volt are contesting these elections with our own list," she continues.

We are looking forward to the results and wish Volt France and its candidates every success in the elections.

• Co-Presidents of Volt, Mels Klabber and Francesca Romana D´Antuono: “Today is an historic moment for European politics. Our newly elected MEPs will represent voters all over Europe - regardless of their nationality. This is what makes us unique. This is how we aim to change politics for the better.”

10 June 2024 - Volt, Europe’s first and only pan-European party, has gained five Members of Parliament after participating for the second time in the European elections. The party will be represented by Damian Boeselager, Anna Strolenberg, Reinier van Lanschot, Nela Riehl and Kai Tegethoff  in the next legislative period. Damian Boeselager has again secured his seat, he was elected as the first Volt MEP in 2019. 

Volt focuses on a democratic reform of the EU, fair migration policies, concrete steps towards a European army, renewable energy supply across Europe and the empowerment of citizens within socially just societies on a European level. The national bodies of the party, however, execute the respective policies on a national and local level. In this way, Volt ensures that its pan-European policies also have a national impact. 

Francesca Romana D’Antuono, Co-President of Volt: “Back in 2019, Volt was electable in 7 countries and was only founded two years before. Now, Volt ran in 15 countries and was backed by over 24,000 members in 30 countries across Europe who shape the progressive goals of our party while membership requests are rising.”

Mels Klabbers, Co-President of Volt Europa explains the pan-European approach of Volt: “Our Volt MEPs are not just representing our home nations. Instead, they share a collective European identity and a unified approach to governance that transcends borders. This means that we don’t have Dutch or German MEPs. We have European MEPs that represent European citizens across national borders.”

About Volt: 

As the first truly pan-European party, Volt is committed to reforming the European Union so that global challenges can be solved across Europe. Volt's vision: A progressive Europe with a democratically elected European government, a socially just society, a climate-protecting economy and self-determined digitalization. 

Volt is convinced that only grassroots democratic participation can prepare Europe for a sustainable, economically strong and socially just future. That is why Volt acts at all levels - from local to European, as a movement and a party. The movement gives all European citizens a voice and the opportunity to get involved politically from within society. Volt is now represented across Europe: thousands of people of all ages and professions are involved in over 30 countries with teams in hundreds of cities.

The Federal Act on a Secure Electricity Supply (Electricity Act) aims to accelerate Switzerland's transition to renewable energies. The law provides for financing instruments and new regulations for the generation, transmission, storage and consumption of electricity. This means that more solar panels should be installed on buildings and the planning conditions for hydropower, wind power and large solar plants should be simplified.
We at Volt call for a Europe-wide green electricity supply based 100% on renewable energies by 2035. While the law is not very ambitious and Switzerland is far from fulfilling its responsibility, it is a good first step in the right direction. Therefore, we support this law.
In the long term, we demand that Switzerland expands on renewables much further. Switzerland was a pioneer in hydropower and we would like it to once again take the lead in the ecological transformation instead of lagging behind.

The health system initiatives both aim to reduce healthcare costs, but with completely different approaches. The Premium Relief Initiative calls for a premium cap for insured persons of a maximum of 10 percent of their disposable income. In return, more premium subsidies should be paid out, at least two thirds of which should be paid by the federal government and at most one third by the cantons. This should alleviate the financial premium burden for private households and also create incentives for the cantons and the federal government to seek longer-term solutions in the financing of the healthcare system.
We at Volt support this proposal and want to use it to take the financial pressure of the unsocial and inefficient Swiss healthcare system off private households and thus call on the federal government and cantons to finally take action. However, this is only the beginning for us: We demand an efficient state-run single health insurance company that provides statutory benefits for all people and is financed through an income-related premium or directly through taxes. Such a centralisation eliminates many currently redundant costs of private health insurance companies, such as marketing or personnel costs, which are currently passed on to the insured.

The cost brake initiative, on the other hand, wants to link the costs of compulsory health insurance to wage developments and economic growth. The federal government, the cantons, service providers and health insurance companies should take cost-saving measures for this purpose. This means that even legitimate future increases in healthcare costs, such as new therapies and drugs, would be severely restricted without any concrete financial relief for private households. This inevitably leads to a deterioration in medical care, which is unsocial and hardly in the interests of Switzerland. Volt does not want a two-tier society in medical care, which is why Volt stands for a NO to the cost brake initiative.

We at Volt vehemently reject the fourth initiative "For Freedom and Physical Integrity". The harmlessly named initiative was launched during the Covid period and comes from science-hostile conspiracy groups. They want to ban the health-protection measures that had to be taken during the Covid pandemic. This would include, among other things, the mask requirement and the use of the Covid vaccination certificate.
As a science-based party, we stand behind the measures that had to be taken during Covid and that have saved so many lives worldwide.

Tl;dr

• YES to the Federal Act on a Secure Electricity Supply

• YES to the Premium Relief Initiative

• NO to the Cost Brake Initiative

• NO to the Popular Initiative "For Freedom and Physical Integrity"

The ICC Chief Prosecutor's recent decision to seek arrest warrants for Israel and Hamas prominent leaders, is a crucial step in the investigation into alleged war crimes in the ongoing war in Gaza and Israel. The orders of the ICJ to Israel to “immediately halt its military offensive, and any other action in the Rafah Governorate, which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part”, are essential to protect the civilian population in Gaza from further unfathomable harm.

Our collective European history, stained by the injustices and inhumanities of antisemitism, racism, colonialism, and the horrors of the Holocaust, bestows upon us a responsibility that must reflect the inviolability of all human life. This responsibility must include respect for and recognition of the right of self-determination and statehood for both Israelis and Palestinians. It must include the support of the many inspiring initiatives in Israel and Palestine that are engaged in the difficult struggle for mutual peace and understanding. This responsibility must include, crucially, unambiguous support for upholding human rights and international law.

Let us be clear: The ICC Chief Prosecutor’s request for arrest warrants does not draw a non-existent moral or political equivalence between the terror organisation Hamas and the democratically elected Israeli government. The requests relate to specific alleged crimes committed by certain individuals, and their specific legal consequences as mandated to the ICC by the Rome Statute. Conflating legal standards with political equivalence dangerously misses the point: no one is above the law.

The ICC and the ICJ are pillars of a rules-based world where human rights are universally respected. They cannot, however, solve underlying political conflicts, nor can they enforce their rulings. Thus, we call upon the EU to put all necessary pressure on the Israeli government for compliance with the ICJ orders and an immediate cessation of the Israeli offensive. The EU must make clear by words and actions that support for the justified wishes and needs of the Israeli population does not equate to accepting the irresponsible actions of the Israeli government, which have now come rightfully under the scrutiny of the ICJ and ICC. Failure to comply with international law must have consequences, and we call upon the EU and its Member States to accept their full responsibility therein.

We must never lose sight of the human suffering that this conflict has inflicted. All hostages must be released unconditionally. Hamas and its ideology should play no role in any post-war arrangements. Only a sustainable political solution that is supported by Israelis and Palestinians, and that leads to the peaceful co-existence of two states will ultimately bring peace. It is high time for us in the EU to find one voice: a voice in defence of international law, a voice of compassion for the suffering on both sides, and a voice that can help build bridges where all bridges seem to have been burned.

We are living in challenging times: The comfortable stability of the recent decades is over and values that were long taken for granted are now being questioned. Democracy is under increasing pressure worldwide and the political intrigues aimed at dividing our society do not halt at Switzerland’s borders. True to the motto "divide and conquer", autocrats like Putin are trying to weaken democratic forces and set them against each other.

In these times, it is more important than ever to stand together and defend democracy. Switzerland is therefore at a crossroads: do we want to continue to insist on our solo effort, the “Alleingang”, in these times of multiple crises and hope that it will all somehow pass us by? Or do we want to take our destiny into our own hands by becoming an active part of Europe and standing up for a better tomorrow together with allies who share our most important values?

Our answer is clear: Switzerland is part of Europe and this should also be included in our constitution!

Democracy, freedom and peace: there is no other partner in the world that shares our fundamental Swiss values as deeply as Europe and the European Union. There is also no other partner that is so intertwined with us economically and politically as well as geographically and culturally and that meets us as equals. It is therefore clear to us that we must stabilise, strengthen and ultimately expand our relations with Europe.

A foundation for a strong relationship instead of plaster policy

First and foremost, relations with the EU need to be stabilised. Unfortunately, the current ones are getting outdated and are still shaky following the breakdown of negotiations on the institutional framework agreement in 2021. This instability is tangible, for example, in the world's largest research project, Horizon Europe, in which Switzerland was downgraded to a third country. Although these tarnished relations are currently being addressed by the new negotiating mandate between Switzerland and the European Union, these new agreements will not last forever either and will become outdated again, especially in these fast-moving times. As with any relationship, it is simply not enough to talk to each other and invest something every few decades. A commitment is needed; a fundamental decision on Europe.

We want to give a voice to the silent majority that is in favour of further development of our relations with the EU and secure our cooperation in the long term, even beyond potential Bilaterals III, IV or V, with a strong and expandable foundation.

A clear goal for active participation

The Europe Initiative has a clear, long-term goal: the Swiss Confederation must safeguard the individual freedoms that the access to the single market and the free movement of persons give us, and expand cooperation in other areas such as culture, education, research and climate protection. By writing cooperation in these important areas into the constitution, we are creating the long-term foundation mentioned above on which we can build in the future.

It is based on the credo: Switzerland should be able to play an active role in shaping what concerns it. In this way, we want to give Switzerland back its ability to act, which it has increasingly lost in recent years.

Following two and a half months of war between Hamas and Israel, the Gaza strip stands largely destroyed. What has started with the horror of the Hamas-led terrorist attack on Israel, has evolved into an unspeakable humanitarian disaster for the Gazan civilian population. In desperate search for safety from relentless Israeli airstrikes and a gruelling ground offensive, 1.9 million out of the 2.2 million civilians have been forced to flee their homes. The healthcare system has collapsed and can no longer support the needs of the population. Shelters are overcrowded and unsanitary. Reports of starving families are wide-spread and heartbreaking. Thousands upon thousands of Palestinians have been killed in the ongoing fighting, leaving no one safe, let it be children, press members or medical staff. The situation in the whole region is starting to crumble: at the Lebanese border, repeated exchange of fire between Hezbollah and Israeli forces has led to displacement of tens of thousands Israeli and Lebanese civilians. Unrest, driven by militant settlers, has taken grip of the Westbank, leaving more than 250 Palestinians dead and Palestinian communities in fear. The Red Sea is under threat to become impassable through the unjustifiable attacks of the Houthi rebels on container ships. 

The humanitarian truce that started on 24th November was a ray of hope. However, it only lasted for a short week with grave consequences for the Palestinians civilians, the estimated Palestinian death toll of which is now over 20.000, and the estimated 129 hostages still held by Hamas, as well as their families.The aid that was delivered during the truce was grossly insufficient given the wide-spread destruction of vital civilian infrastructure. The current humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza is unacceptable and must be stopped.

We call on all actors to change track. Hamas must release all hostages unconditionally. Barriers to the delivery of aid must be minimised, and humanitarian international law must be upheld at all times. In this regard, we welcome the passing of the UN resolution on December 22nd as a first step of the international community to safeguard and facilitate humanitarian aid. However, we would have wished for a stronger commitment to at least a temporary suspension of the hostilities, since the ongoing high intensity fighting is the biggest obstacle to the sufficient delivery of aid. Therefore, comprehensive and frequent humanitarian pauses, or an immediate and substantial ceasefire to allow additionally for political dialogue to start, are necessary, otherwise the outlook is bleak. 

We believe that the actions of the international community are instrumental to shape an environment, where even in violent conflict international law is respected and a peaceful solution is made likely. The EU, with the reactions characterised by indecision, internal divisions, and a lack of a coherent strategy, fails currently to foster such an environment. Time and time again, EU Member States are trapped in their own national narratives on the wider Israel-Palestine conflict as highlighted by the voting history in the UN assembly with the European votes being split. Paradoxically, exactly this diversity of narratives across Europe should offer a chance to contribute to a political vision that is reflective of the justified needs and wishes of both Israelis and Palestinians. 

The EU, built from the ruins of the second world war to ensure peace on a war-torn continent, must act in this sense. The EU must use all available diplomatic and political instruments available to support the legitimate interests of Israelis and Palestinians alike. As such, the EU must provide any and all political support to the ICC investigation into alleged violations of international law committed in Israel, Gaza, and the Westbank.The EU must continue to support the goal of sustainably removing Hamas, working with high intensity to disable the flow of financial and material resources to the terror organisation and its allies. The EU should also support and mirror the proposed plans of the US to sanction Israeli settlers responsible for violent attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank. Moreover, the EU must support all actions that enhance the chance of two peacefully coexisting Israeli and Palestinian states. We welcome therefore the decision of the EU commission of providing direct 118 million euros of financial aid to the Palestinian Authority for paying salaries and pensions of civil servants as well as social allowances for families in need.  Finally, the EU must oppose the repulsive statements of Israeli government major representatives blatantly disenfranchising Palestinians of the right to self-determination. 

In a world of spiralling instability, where violent conflicts threaten the lives of millions of innocent civilians across the world, the EU has the moral and political responsibility to show its commitment to a rule-based world. A life in dignity must not only be a distant dream but an inviolable human right.