Fribourg to Vote on Minimum Wage Initiative in November
A minimum wage initiative is set to go to a vote in the canton of Fribourg in November. The initiative, backed by those advocating for better pay for low-income workers, aims to establish a mandatory minimum wage of 23 Swiss francs per hour. If passed, Fribourg would join five other cantons with a minimum wage.
The initiative, launched by its committee on Friday, seeks to improve economic conditions for certain sectors and motivate young people to work in retail, childcare, or hospitality without facing 'precariousness as the only perspective'. However, opponents argue that increased labor costs could lead to job cuts, particularly in jobs for integration or with a social orientation, and dual education may also be affected.
Alexandre Vonlanthen, a Grand Council member and president of the Fribourg FDP, warns that the initiative could result in more rules, inspections, and bureaucracy. Flavio Bortoluzzi, an SVP politician, suggests that a minimum wage could devalue vocational training. Civil parties and economic associations have also joined the opposition, expressing concern about the pressure a minimum wage would place on SMEs, especially in low-margin sectors.
The initiative for a minimum wage in the canton of Fribourg will be decided in a November vote. Supporters hope it will improve income for low-wage workers and encourage young people to work in certain sectors. Opponents, however, caution about potential job cuts and increased pressure on small and medium-sized enterprises.
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