Switzerland and the European Union have reached an agreement to share passenger data, a move officials say will bolster security and combat terrorism. The deal, signed Thursday in Brussels by Swiss Federal Councillor Beat Jans and European Commissioner for Migration Magnus Brunner, establishes a framework for the transfer of airline passenger information from EU carriers to Switzerland.
According to Jans, the exchanged data will be used to “find terrorists and fight crime.” Brunner added that the agreement will make life “safer” for citizens of both Switzerland and the EU.
The agreement, which was initially approved by the Swiss Federal Council in November, governs the transfer of data from EU airlines, as well as its processing and exchange between relevant national authorities. The move comes as European nations increasingly prioritize cross-border cooperation on security matters.
Data Security and Implementation
Jans assured reporters that clear rules are in place to ensure data security, with built-in protection mechanisms. He as well noted his participation in a ministerial meeting of Schengen Area member states in Brussels.
Switzerland’s parliament established the legal basis for processing the data last year, passing legislation on air passenger data. Some provisions of that law took effect January 1, with the remaining sections expected to be implemented by the complete of 2026.
The agreement now requires ratification by the EU, including approval from the European Parliament and the Council of EU member states. Swiss officials are aiming for the agreement to go into effect in early 2027.
This agreement follows a broader discussion about strengthening ties between Switzerland and the EU, particularly in the realm of security. Swiss officials have previously stated there is a “strategic necessity” to increase collaboration with the EU on security issues.
