The Federal Council has confirmed a sector-specific, innovation-preserving approach — rejecting a broad, horizontal AI law like the ELI’s.
Kev elements: Ratification of the Council of Europe Framework Convention on AI, targeted amendments to existing laws (primarily sector-by-sector), and limited general rules focused on fundamental rights (e.g., data protection). A consultation draft for implementing legislation is planned by the end of 2026.
The Federal Council’s 12 February 2025 decision sets a clear, balanced path:
- Ratify and implement the Council of Europe AI Convention to embed human rights, democracy, and rule-of-law principles.
- Prioritize sector-specific adaptations to existing laws, keeping regulation targeted and proportionate.
- Restrict broad, cross-sector rules to fundamental rights essentials data protection, non discrimination)-
- Leverage non-binding, industry-driven tools — such as voluntary self-certification, codes of ethics, standards, and sector agreements — to ensure flexibility and competitiveness for private enterprises.
This approach reinforces Switzerland as a leading deep tech hub, with draft implementation
legislation expected by end-2026.
