Switzerland: these changes come into force in December

Lower drug prices, a new information system for the civil service, an updated exchange agreement for young professionals and a new jet for the Federal Council: these new provisions come into force in Switzerland in December.

Drug prices

The Confederation has decided to lower the price of around 300 medicines, which corresponds to 55% of the original preparations controlled by the Federal Office of Public Health. On average, these drugs will cost 12% less. According to the Confederation, this should enable savings estimated at at least 90 million francs.

This year’s review concerns, for example, medicines used to treat diseases of the skin, nervous system and blood. No reduction is considered necessary for the remaining 45% of preparations, as they remain economical compared to prices charged abroad and to other medicines. The price reductions decided apply from December 1st.

Civil Service Information System

In October, the Federal Council approved the complete revision of the ordinance on the civil service information system. It thus created a legal basis governing the processing of personal data in the civil service by means of the new ZiviConnect application, intended to replace E-ZIVI. ZiviConnect has a system architecture based on micro-services, as well as the necessary interfaces with the different authorities involved in the execution of the civil service.

As up to now, people required to serve in civil service and the establishments of assignment will be able to access each other’s data online, for the purposes of organizing assignments. The revised order will take effect on December 1.

Exchange program

A new agreement has been signed between Switzerland and the United States for the exchange of interns and young professionals. It aims to facilitate the mobility of these people between the two countries for a limited period. They will thus be able to broaden their skills in their fields of study or professional and deepen their specialized knowledge.

The agreement, which applies to Swiss nationals aged 18 to 35, replaces the existing agreement dating from 1980. It will come into force on November 30, 2024. Participants must either be in training or hold a professional diploma or academic. People who do not meet these conditions may still be eligible for an exchange, as long as they can demonstrate certain professional experience.

Federal Council plane

The Federal Council will receive a new plane in December. The Bombardier Global 7500, the new state aircraft, is expected to be used for the first time in spring 2025. It will replace the Cessna Citation Excel 560XL, which will then be 23 years old. The new aircraft can theoretically accommodate up to 20 seats and has a range of 14,000 kilometers, which roughly corresponds to the distance between Switzerland and Australia.

The Bombardier Global 7500 is considered one of the largest business jets in the world. The acquisition is expected to cost around 100 million francs. During the year 2025, the jet will still be equipped with a self-protection system aimed at reducing the risk of threats from portable air defense systems.

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