Swiss politician fights to keep cash payments alive in public services
Swiss politician Roland Büchel has launched a new parliamentary initiative to protect cash payments for public services. The move follows a recent referendum that reinforced the right to use cash in Switzerland. Büchel's proposal seeks to ensure that government offices, public transport, and essential infrastructure continue accepting physical money.
His latest push contrasts with a past attempt in 2013, when he proposed scrapping the five-franc coin due to high production costs. That idea faced strong opposition and was later abandoned.
Büchel's initiative aligns with a new constitutional rule guaranteeing cash availability. He worked closely with Richard Koller, who led the March 2024 cash referendum, to shape the proposal. The goal is to prevent exclusion by keeping cash accessible for older adults, people with disabilities, low-income individuals, and those without bank accounts.
Cash also provides a backup during emergencies, such as power cuts or cyberattacks. Büchel argues that physical money strengthens payment systems by operating without electricity or internet. Despite his current stance, the Swiss National Bank has not updated its position on cash since the referendum. Recent reports only confirm its zero-interest policy as of March 2026, with no mention of cash-related decisions.
The politician's shift comes after his 2013 proposal to eliminate the five-franc coin sparked public criticism. Facing backlash, he withdrew the plan, acknowledging the public's attachment to cash. Now, his focus is on embedding cash protections into law, ensuring it remains a viable option for all Swiss residents.
If approved, Büchel's initiative would require public services to accept cash payments. This would reinforce the referendum's outcome and maintain cash as a reliable payment method. The proposal also highlights ongoing debates about financial inclusion and system resilience in Switzerland.
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