New agreement between Switzerland and the EU: a turning point in bilateral relations

On 20 December 2024, Switzerland and the European Union signed a historic agreement that will sustainably strengthen and modernise bilateral relations. After years of negotiations, this agreement marks a significant milestone in the partnership between the two economic areas. Here are the key points of the new agreement and what it means for the future.


1. Background to the agreement

Switzerland is not a member of the EU, but is closely linked to the European single market through a number of bilateral agreements. Relations were recently strained by the failed negotiations on an institutional framework agreement in 2021. The new agreement is the result of intensive negotiations and shows the will of both sides to deepen cooperation.


2. The most important elements of the agreement

Electricity agreement

Switzerland will be more closely integrated into the European internal electricity market in future. This will promote security of supply, facilitate cross-border trade in electricity and support the energy transition.

Food safety

The agreement provides for the harmonisation of standards along the entire food chain. This facilitates trade and increases consumer safety.

Health agreement

For the first time, Switzerland will have access to EU mechanisms to combat cross-border health threats. This includes cooperation with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

Participation in EU programmes

Switzerland will once again have access to important EU programmes such as:

  • Horizont Europa (research and innovation),
  • Erasmus+ (education and youth exchange) and
  • EU4Health (health policy).

This will significantly promote scientific progress, educational opportunities and healthcare policy in Switzerland.

Financial contribution

From 2030, Switzerland will make an annual contribution to the economic and social cohesion of the EU. This reflects the intensity of the partnership and strengthens solidarity within Europe.


3. Significance for Switzerland and the EU

This agreement is a major step forward. For Switzerland, it means greater integration into the European single market and access to valuable EU programmes. For the EU, it is a signal that partnership-based solutions are also possible outside of full membership.

The economy will benefit in particular, as trade barriers will be reduced and cooperation in key areas such as energy, health and education will be intensified. At the same time, Switzerland’s political autonomy will be preserved – an important point for the Swiss population.


4. The next steps

The agreement must now be ratified by the Swiss and EU parliaments. Political observers expect controversial discussions, particularly in Switzerland, where direct democracy plays a central role. A referendum could not be ruled out.


Conclusion

The new agreement between Switzerland and the EU is a model of constructive cooperation between a third country and the European Union. It shows that political differences can be overcome through dialogue and compromise. This agreement not only strengthens economic relations, but also promotes cooperation in areas such as energy, health and research – a win-win situation for both sides.

Further information can be found on the pages of Reuters, the European Commission and admin.ch.