New insurance premium initiative

Switzerland's Socialist Party is expected to launch signature collection today for an initiative linking health insurance premiums to household income

The move coincides with the government's announcement of the 2027 premium rise, widely expected at around 5%.

Under the proposal, families would pay reduced premiums based on income, and children under 18 would be entirely exempt from basic insurance.

The scheme would be funded by a surcharge of around 15% on the highest earners, with a defined ceiling.

At present, only low incomes qualify for cantonal premium subsidies — the initiative would greatly widen the pool of beneficiaries.

 

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