A year after talks to reorganize Switzerland’s agreements with Brussels broke off, leaders of the Swiss Socialist Party have presented a plan for how Switzerland could join the EU, RTS reports.

A 32-page document sets out a strategy that unites the party on an issue that has divided them for many years. The union-backed part of the party has long feared an influx of EU workers would erode wages, while many others in the party have focused more on the benefits of Switzerland’s integration into the bloc.

The document sets out the advantages and disadvantages of EU membership. Participation in decisions in Brussels, the EU’s more progressive climate policy and more stable cooperation in research and education are cited as advantages. On the negative side, necessary reforms of the system of direct democracy in Switzerland, the need for a doubling of VAT and the pressure that the Swiss public service sector would face if faced with EU competition are cited.

Overall, the party sees a net gain, arguing that Europe is moving towards more socialist, ecological and democratic conditions that the party likes.

However, public opinion contradicts this view. A survey published in 2020 found that only 7% support Switzerland joining the EU. This does not discourage the party, which sees the current position as just the start of a long journey. Cédric Wermuth, co-leader of the party, said there were no guarantees but we believe now is the time to reopen the route to Europe.

The plan has three phases. First, to regulate Switzerland’s participation in Horizon Europe and Erasmus by the end of 2023. Second, to reach an economic agreement by 2028 and then start negotiations on EU accession. The most optimistic members are hoping for membership by the end of the decade. Others hope for membership in 20 years.

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