“Assent to the Global Compact for Migration is in Switzerland’s interest,” said a statementExternal link published on Wednesday.
Initially the government had agreed the non-binding deal without formal consultation by parliament.
The aims set out in the pact are in line with Switzerland’s migration policy, according to the government, and would not require any action legal amendments or financial commitments.
However, parties from the political centre and the right have argued that the pact would lead to more migration, contradict Swiss law and practice as well as jeopardise Switzerland’s independence.
The so-called Global Compact provides a framework for countries with “less robust migration systems”, the government says.
More than 150 countries adopted the pact at the UN General Assembly in 2018, but Switzerland, together with 11 other nations, abstained.
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Switzerland should join NATO, as in the future it cannot rely on its long-standing tradition of neutrality for its defence, John Bolton, Donald Trump's former national security adviser, declared in an interview on Sunday.
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A demonstration was held in Geneva on Sunday calling for an immediate end to the war in Ukraine. Around 50 Russians took part in the gathering outside the UN building.
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Where Swiss development aid meets migration
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Controversial and currently on hold in Switzerland, the UN Migration Pact strives to help people live in peace and follow their dreams.
Expert group recommends Switzerland sign migration pact
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The Federal Commission on Migration has recommended that Switzerland sign a recently-drafted, controversial United Nations pact.
Landmark forum seeks ‘better answers’ to refugee response
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The first-ever “Global Refugee Forum” opens in Geneva on Monday to identify practical solutions to improve the lives of refugees and host communities.
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