Politics Civilian service members to help out with civil defense staff shortages
If the Civil Defense is understaffed, people doing compulsory civilian service will have to do part of their service with the Civil Defense. Parliament agrees in principle with this controversial innovation.
11.03.2025, 10:22
11.03.2025, 11:20
SDA
On Tuesday, the National Council, as the second chamber, approved the necessary amendments to the law by 127 votes to 64, against the wishes of the SP and the Greens. Opponents called the plan unnecessary and an "attack on civilian service". The proponents criticized "ideological trench warfare". Motions to reject or suspend the bill were rejected.
The Federal Council justified the proposals with understaffing in civil defense and its tasks in emergencies and disasters. The national target figure is 72,000 civil defense personnel. At the beginning of 2025, the number was 57,000. According to Defense Minister Viola Amherd, this could still be around 50,000 by 2030.
