Switzerland - Unions challenge nursing law reforms - May 31, 2026

Health sector workers, represented by VPOD/SSP and allied organisations, are disputing how the Government and parliament are implementing the 2021 nursing initiative. The initiative, approved by 61% of voters in a national referendum, amended the constitution and called for stronger measures to address staff shortages and deteriorating working conditions in the nursing sector. Following the referendum, the authorities began preparing implementing legislation, including the Federal Act on Working Conditions in Nursing (BGAP). VPOD/SSP and supporting organisations submitted a petition with almost 190,000 signatures, arguing that the draft law does not fully implement the commitments approved by voters. The unions argue that parliament weakened earlier Government proposals and failed to introduce binding obligations on employers regarding staffing levels, working time and compliance with existing cantonal agreements.

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