Promoting openness and the common good

We advocate for a legal and policy framework that enables the efficient provision, governance and effective use of (open) data in the public interest.  

Open data by default

The EMBAG Act, which lays the foundations  for the digital transformation of the Swiss federal administration, came into force at the beginning of 2024. By introducing the principle of “open by default” for federal data that does not require protection, it marks an important step for Open Government Data (OGD) in Switzerland. Other highlights: open source software, open standards, APIs, an interoperability platform, pilot projects, start-up funding to promote urgently needed digital infrastructure and basic services, and digitalisation projects of great public interest.

Having  accompanied the legislative process from the consultation procedure in 2021 through to its parliamentary phase, we were able to bring about important improvements to the text of the bill.

To prepare the administration for entry into force at the end of the transition period in 2027, the Federal Council has introduced measures to promote OGD. Having contributed to the OGD Masterplan, we are following its implementation. 

We also advocate for the introduction of an ”open by default” policy at cantonal level.