The Swiss Parliament is now reviewing a package of agreements designed to solidify and expand Switzerland’s relationship with the European Union, a move the Federal Council deems crucial for maintaining economic and scientific ties. The “Stabilisation and Development of Relations with the EU” package – often referred to as “Bilaterales III” – was transmitted to Parliament on Friday, March 13, 2026, according to a statement released by the Federal Council.
President of the Confederation Guy Parmelin emphasized the importance of the package, stating it is “in the interest of Switzerland” and represents the “only way to maintain a balanced margin of manoeuvre” in its relationship with the EU. The agreements aim to ensure continuity in economic, scientific, and social links, establishing what the Federal Council describes as a “stable and durable legal basis.” Without progress on these agreements, the existing bilateral path, developed over the last 25 years, risks losing its substance, officials warn.
The package addresses key areas including the free movement of people, land transport, electricity, and food security. According to the Federal Council, 73% of Swiss exports to the EU will be covered by the agreement on mutual recognition in the assessment of conformity (ARM), reducing technical barriers to trade. The agreements also seek to align immigration levels with labor market needs, and include a new safeguard clause allowing Switzerland to independently activate restrictions if necessary.
Justice Minister Beat Jans sought to address concerns about immigration, stating that individuals arriving in Switzerland without a job offer will be required to demonstrate sufficient means of subsistence. This assurance comes as the agreements are expected to facilitate continued labor mobility between Switzerland and the EU.
The transmission of the package to Parliament follows a period of consultation and internal review within the Federal Council, with decisions taken on December 5, 2025, and February 11 and 28, 2026. Alongside the message to Parliament, the Federal Council has also adopted and published the necessary federal decrees and legislative acts. The agreements are intended to foster a “reliable framework” for Swiss export-oriented businesses and contribute to the country’s prosperity.
Separately, on March 13, 2026, the Federal Council also acknowledged the recent entry into partial force, on January 1, 2026, of the Federal Act on the Processing of Passenger Data (LDPa). This law, adopted by Parliament on March 21, 2025, allows authorities to analyze passenger data to strengthen the fight against terrorism and serious crime. The law has received relatively little public attention despite its implications for travelers, airlines, and data privacy.
