How Switzerland’s EU Negotiations are Evolving Post-Framework Agreement Breakdown

Introduction

The President of the Conference of Cantonal Governments is confident that Switzerland will achieve a better outcome in negotiations with the EU than in the failed framework agreement. This time, negotiations have been conducted more effectively, according to him.

Image Source: Andrea Zahler / CHM

Legitimacy of the Conference of Cantonal Governments (KdK)

• The members of the KdK are all elected councilors acting on behalf of their cantons based on government decisions.
• The Swiss constitution allows cantonal involvement in foreign policy, giving weight to cantonal opinions.
  

  In-depth Analysis
  

  Why KdK Supports an Agreement with the EU
  

• The KdK backed the Federal Council’s negotiation guidelines, demonstrating overall support from 24 out of 26 cantonal governments.
• The need for renegotiations arose from a study highlighting deteriorating relations with the EU post-framework agreement breakdown.
  

  Impact on Various Regions
  

• The Northwest region, known for its pharmaceutical interests, strongly advocates for an institutional agreement with the EU.
• Negative repercussions of negotiation breakdowns were felt in areas like restricted participation in the EU’s Horizon research program and mutual recognition agreements.
  

  Overcoming Challenges
  

• The exclusion from the Horizon program was a punitive measure by the EU, but negotiations have led to potential reintegration.
• New negotiations aim to prevent arbitrary punitive actions by the EU through defined dispute resolution mechanisms.
  

  Addressing Concerns
  

• Kantons are wary of automatic legal adoptions but are open to dynamic adoptions, citing successful past agreements in the aviation sector.
• The current negotiations are viewed as more stringent and strategic compared to previous attempts.
  

  Expert Insights from Markus Dieth
  

  Markus Dieth, President of the Conference of Cantonal Governments:

• Emphasizes the need for a stable foundation for regulated relationships with the EU.
• Stresses the importance of long-term agreements that provide stability and flexibility for future negotiations.
  

  FAQ: Addressing Common Concerns
  

  Q: Will the agreement impact state subsidies for local banks and institutions?
  

• A: State aid regulations only apply with market access agreements, not affecting financial sectors without such agreements.
  

  Q: How will the agreement handle concerns about EU’s evolving legal landscape?
  

• A: By defining clear exceptions and conditions in bilateral agreements, Switzerland aims to protect its legal autonomy.
  

  Conclusion
  

  Switzerland’s ongoing negotiations with the EU present a complex interplay of economic, political, and regulatory considerations. While challenges persist, the willingness to engage in strategic negotiations reflects a commitment to forging sustainable relationships with the EU.

  Sources
  

• New York Times
• Financial Times