Issues

Institutional and legal issues – autonomous adoption of EU law (acquis)

At its meeting on 26 May, the Federal Council undertook an overall evaluation of the outcome of the negotiations on the institutional framework agreement (InstA). It concluded that there remain substantial differences between Switzerland and the EU on key aspects of the agreement.

Free movement of persons – functioning and current state of play

The agreement on the free movement of persons enables citizens from Switzerland and the EU member states to freely choose their place of work and place of domicile within the territories of the contracting parties

Research – a fruitful cooperation

Fruitful cooperation exists between Switzerland and the EU in the field of scientific research: Further information at eda.admin.ch.

Schengen/Dublin – a common border

The Schengen Association Agreement facilitates travel between Switzerland and the EU by eliminating identity controls at the internal borders of the Schengen Area

Economy and trade – an essential partnership

The EU accounts for over half of Swiss exports and two-thirds of Swiss imports – economic relations are vitally important

The United Kingdom's exit from the European Union (Brexit) and the Federal Council's 'Mind the gap' strategy

In a referendum held by the British government in 2016, 51.9% of British voters voted in favour of leaving the EU. Because relations between Switzerland and the EU are largely covered by the bilateral agreements concluded between Switzerland and the EU, Brexit also has consequences for Switzerland.