English in the institutions

Part J discussed the options for integrating English into the canton's institutions. The most significant is the introduction of English-language proceedings in commercial disputes, which the revised Civil Procedure Code allows. The canton could introduce them at its cantonal court for international commercial disputes, possibly with specialised judges and in cooperation with other cantons. It could also extend its English-language services in the commercial register, the tax administration and the migration office, while keeping German as the official language.

These measures would send a signal to international companies that the canton takes their needs seriously. They would leave untouched the fundamental situation that the democratic institutions work in German, a situation that is part of the canton's identity and that there is no reason to change. The aim is a canton that works in German and serves in English where that is useful, which is the model that the canton has followed informally for decades.

For general information only. This article does not constitute legal or tax advice, does not replace advice on an individual case and creates no lawyer-client relationship. It reflects the legal position as of September 2025.

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