Parliament has voted to pay the 13th month pension payment once a year in December from 2026.
In March, voters decided on the rise by over 58%.
It will cost over CHF 4bn a year, but CHF 5bn by 2030. To pay for it, VAT will increase to 8.8% in 2026 and the federal government will contribute CHF 450m a year.
It will be paid to all those claiming a pension and won’t impact poorer pensioners who are already receiving extra welfare payments.
Govt ready to step in on train staff attacks
Swiss Federal Railways says assaults on train staff remain a daily reality - and it seems the government is ready to step in.
Police have to disclose nationality of offenders
Switzerland’s Senate has voted to require police to systematically mention the nationality of suspects when communicating about crimes.
Valais bar association says no new fire laws are needed
The association that represents bars and restaurants in canon Valais - GastroValais - has caused outrage by writing to all cantonal parliamentarians saying no new safety fire laws are needed.
Major Swiss firm to cut jobs
The Swiss logistics firm - Kühne+Nagel - says it will have to lay off 2,000 staff. Around 1,000 more than previously believed.
Post your ballots on time
If you’re voting by post this weekend - get your ballot in the mail.
This winter was significantly warmer than average
MeteoSwiss says the winter was significantly warmer than average, despite dense fog on the Swiss Plateau in December and a bitterly cold start to the year.
