BERN - The Federal Assembly opened its autumn session on Monday, sitting until 2 October. The Council of States will spend three days on the package of agreements with the European Union, including dynamic adoption of EU law, wage protection and a safeguard clause if immigration rises too fast. From 28 September, senators will also argue whether the package should face only an optional referendum or a mandatory vote that needs a majority of cantons.
President Guy Parmelin used the opening to set out government goals for 2027: economic competitiveness, climate resilience, cybersecurity, and closer work with the EU on research and civil protection. He also promised a national strategy on domestic and gender-based violence and a consultation on a law against organised crime.
Guns, surplus and a giant fund
In the National Council the regular army budget of CHF 3.4 billion is on the table, together with a government idea from August to channel tax surpluses into arms purchases instead of debt reduction. A separate defence fund of about CHF 24 billion is meant to lock in long-term capability. Critics say it punches a hole in the debt brake. Supporters say the army cannot wait for ordinary budgets.
The sitting also covers dual citizenship questions of interest to the Swiss Abroad and, after Tuesday's Senate vote, a second look at Mercosur. Climate policy from the 2035 framework is scheduled later in the three weeks. Our day-by-day file for this month starts on the homepage.