EU Signals Stability Despite Swiss Vote Looming, Won’t Engage in “Poker,” Says Analyst
BERN, Switzerland – As Switzerland prepares for a potential referendum on a series of agreements designed to deepen ties with the European Union, a leading Swiss politician asserts the EU is prioritizing a stable relationship and won’t risk jeopardizing it with aggressive tactics. Eric Nussbaumer, a member of the Swiss Council, stated the EU, particularly neighboring member states, “want a stable relationship, otherwise they would never have offered Switzerland this tailor-made package.”
The comments come as concerns mount over potential EU sanctions should Swiss voters reject the package of agreements. While the possibility of retaliatory measures remains, Nussbaumer believes the EU will avoid a hardline approach. “The EU will not play poker in stammering,” he said.
Under the new dispute settlement procedure included in the agreements, Switzerland has recourse to a joint arbitral tribunal should it deem any compensatory measures imposed by the EU to be unjustified. While the tribunal cannot outright prevent sanctions, Nussbaumer explained, “This one certainly cannot stop them, but they will have to remain proportionate.”
the Swiss federal department of Foreign Affairs (DFAE) echoes this assessment, with spokesperson Elisa Raggi emphasizing the legal certainty provided by the new process, preventing arbitrary sanctions. Raggi further clarified that the EU can only enact compensatory measures after a contractual violation has been officially recognized by the arbitral tribunal, and even then, a three-month grace period exists for amicable resolution through a mixed committee.
“This system ensures that any compensatory measures will not cause disproportionate damage to Switzerland,” Raggi stated.
The agreements aim to solidify cooperation between Switzerland and the EU across various sectors, offering a framework for continued access to the single market and participation in key EU programs. The potential referendum underscores ongoing debate within Switzerland regarding the extent of its alignment with the EU.
