Chapter 2.15 of the dispatch (pp. 995-1001) describes the protocol on parliamentary cooperation between Switzerland and the EU. It establishes a Joint Parliamentary Committee for regular dialogue.
The protocol is legally binding but not subject to referendum. It institutionalises the parliamentary dialogue through a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) bringing together members of the Federal Assembly and the European Parliament. The committee meets at least once a year and may address recommendations to the executives.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Form | Protocol (annex to the package) |
| Legally binding | Yes |
| Subject to referendum | No |
| Staffing needs | 1 FTE (Parliamentary Services) |
The JPC is the central body of parliamentary cooperation:
Composition:
Working method:
The JPC complements and formalises existing contacts:
Staffing needs are modest: 1 full-time equivalent (FTE) at Parliamentary Services for:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Legal form | Protocol (legally binding) |
| Subject to referendum | No |
| Body | Joint Parliamentary Committee |
| Composition | Federal Assembly + European Parliament |
| Frequency | At least 1x/year |
| Staffing needs | 1 FTE Parliamentary Services |
| EFTA Delegation | Observer status |