Swiss unions demand 2% wage increase amid rising living costs

TravailSuisse calls for average wage increase of 2% to offset increasing health insurance premiums and housing costs, citing expected 4% rise in healthcare costs for 2026.

Key Takeaways

TravailSuisse is demanding an average wage increase of 2% for all employees for the coming year.
Health insurance premiums are expected to rise by 4% in 2026.
Health insurance premiums rose between 5.4% and 8.1% from 2023 to 2025.
Higher corporate productivity is cited as the financial basis for the wage increase demands.

By The Numbers

Wage Increase Demand

Projected Premium Increase

0.5%

Income Reduction

5.4% - 8.1%

Historical Premium Rise

They Said

"Due to the rising cost of living, particularly in terms of health insurance premiums and rents, as well as a growing economy, the association is calling for wage increases."
— TravailSuisse Statement

"Higher productivity creates scope for wage increases."
— TravailSuisse

The Ultimatum: Labor Demands Its Fair Share

The Healthcare Price Spiral

Productivity vs. Paychecks

The Purchasing Power Crisis

Sources & References

Swiss union federation demands average wage increase of 2%

SWI swissinfo.ch