The government of Switzerland decided to impose restrictions on the immigrants' inflow from the European Union. Referring to the statistical data, which shows that 1 out of 4 is a non-resident, Berne is enforcing quotas for the EU workers. Last year the immigration reached unacceptable levels. Despite the rather low unemployment of 3%, the foreigners are making up a quarter of the economically active population of Switzerland.
The legislative initiative may damage the relationship between Brussels and Berne. “These measures disregard the great benefits that the free movement of persons brings to the citizens of both Switzerland and the EU,” noted European Union High Representative Catherine Ashton. Although Switzerland is not the EU member, the country signed several agreements ensuring free movements of people accross the European territory. Such a step of the authorities may lead to serious consequences, which will reflect in the bilateral relations. This government measure has been implemented only for a year.