Switzerland’s new electronic ID may be optional, but its future use is already sparking debate.
National Councillor Nik Gugger wants access to online pornography restricted to users who verify their age using the e-ID, arguing it would better protect minors.
The Federal Council supports studying the proposal.
Critics warn this could pave the way for broader online identification requirements, calling the e-ID a “pseudo-free will” that may eventually become unavoidable.
Emergency heatwave plans active
Geneva and Vaud are activating their heatwave plans from today as temperatures could climb to 37 over the next couple of days.
Parliament backs VAT hike for pension payments
The lower house of parliament, the National Council, has rejected the mixed-financing plan and voted only to raise VAT to fund the 13th old-age pension.
Parliament rejects trade agreement
In a surprise reversal, the parliament has rejected a major free trade agreement with the Mercosur bloc of South American nations.
Sperm donation laws hit setback
A proposal to make it easier for same-sex couples and other intended parents to adopt children born through sperm donation has hit a setback in Parliament.
AI hits travel agent
The online travel agent Lastminute.com is cutting a quarter of its workforce — around 400 jobs — by the end of 2026 to restructure around artificial intelligence.
Migros upsets locals with wrong number
Migros has sparked an outcry after using the French number form "soixante-dix" instead of the local "septante" in a recent YouTube advert.
