Students across Switzerland are preparing to protest planned increases in university tuition fees. The federal government proposes to double fees for Swiss students and quadruple them for international students starting in 2027. This move is part of a larger federal austerity package aimed at reducing government spending.
The University of Bern has voiced strong opposition to the proposed changes, stating that higher education should remain accessible to all, regardless of financial background. Student organizations from multiple universities will gather in Bern on Wednesday to demonstrate against the measures.
Key Takeaways
- Swiss students face a potential doubling of tuition fees by 2027.
- International students could see their fees quadruple.
- The Federal Council aims to save 460 million Swiss Francs annually in education.
- The University of Bern and student groups oppose the fee increases.
- A national student protest is planned in Bern.
Federal Government Plans Education Spending Cuts
The Swiss federal government announced plans in late January to significantly reduce its financial contributions to federal institutes of technology (ETH) and cantonal universities. This decision is part of a broader "Relief Package 27," which includes 59 measures designed to cut federal spending across almost all sectors.
The main goal of these cuts is to save 460 million Swiss Francs annually in the education sector starting in 2027. The government argues that universities should generate more of their own income, a concept it calls "strengthening user financing."
Current vs. Proposed Fees
- Current average for Swiss students: 724 Swiss Francs per semester.
- Proposed average for Swiss students (from 2027): Approximately 1,448 Swiss Francs per semester.
- Current average for international students: 1,168 Swiss Francs per semester.
- Proposed average for international students (from 2027): Approximately 4,672 Swiss Francs per semester.
These proposed increases would make studying in Switzerland substantially more expensive. While Swiss fees are currently lower than in some countries like Wales, where students pay around 9,653 Euros annually, the planned hike would place Switzerland among the top ten countries in Europe for highest tuition fees.
Comparative European Tuition Costs
Neighboring countries often have lower tuition rates. In France and Germany, domestic students frequently pay less than 200 Euros per year. Austria even waives tuition fees for its own citizens, as well as for students from EU/EEA countries and Switzerland.
In total, twelve European countries offer tuition-free higher education for domestic students. The Swiss government's proposal aims to shift more of the financial burden directly onto students and their families.
The "Relief Package 27" Explained
The "Relief Package 27" is a comprehensive program designed to rebalance the federal budget. The Federal Council based its selection of measures on the Gaillard Report, a document prepared by an expert commission. This report outlines ways for the federal government to offset future increased expenditures, such as those for the national pension system (AHV) and the military.
Background on Federal Spending
The Swiss federal budget faces increasing pressure from various areas. The Gaillard Report was commissioned to identify potential savings. Critics argue that the Relief Package 27 focuses too heavily on cutting expenses rather than exploring options for increased revenue through taxation.
The Federal Council approved the message regarding the Relief Package 27 this month and sent it to Parliament. Both chambers of Parliament will discuss the package during the upcoming winter session and in the spring. The government's message explicitly states that increased tuition fees are the intended outcome of this specific measure.
"The planned savings measures threaten to turn a fundamental right into a luxury good!"
This statement, from student organizations, highlights the core concern that higher education could become inaccessible for many. The federal government, however, views these changes as a necessary step towards a more self-sufficient education funding model.
University of Bern and Student Groups Oppose Fee Hikes
The planned tuition fee increases have met strong resistance from both student bodies and the University of Bern itself. The Association of Swiss Student Unions (VSS) and the Union des Etudiant-e-s de Suisse (UNES) have called for a national demonstration on Wednesday at the Bundesplatz in Bern.
Student organizations from the University of Bern, the Bern University of Applied Sciences, and the Bern University of Teacher Education will participate. In their joint position paper, these groups sharply criticize the proposed fee hikes.
They argue that "higher education plays a central role in promoting social mobility, individual economic freedom, and overall societal progress." They warn that the proposed measures could transform a basic right into a luxury good, limiting opportunities for many young people.
Concerns About Equal Opportunity
The student organizations also point out that the current scholarship system is not sufficient to offset higher fees for financially disadvantaged students. This inadequacy would compromise equal opportunities in education.
The University of Bern shares these concerns. Its media office stated, "The University of Bern is generally critical of a general increase in semester fees. Education should be accessible regardless of financial means."
The university further noted that even without increased fees, challenges exist regarding equal opportunity. Children of academics are already significantly more likely to attend university than those without academic role models in their families. Higher fees would worsen this disparity.
Rejecting the American Model of Funding
The University of Bern explicitly rejects the idea of a "user financing" model for universities, similar to the American system. They believe the American model is not suitable for Switzerland.
"Public funding of excellent academic education is one of the best future investments a state can make," the university stated. This position emphasizes the long-term societal benefits of accessible higher education.
The widespread opposition from students and universities suggests that the parliamentary debate will be significant. The impact of this resistance on lawmakers will depend on how visible and broadly supported the protests appear. The demonstration scheduled for Wednesday will serve as an initial indicator of this support.