Security is the New Salary

Employees need a fair pay raise and stability at work. An overview of our 2026 wage demands.

Our world is currently marked by constant changes and uncertainties. The high tariffs imposed by the United States further reinforce this trend. In this environment, stable employment is essential for workers. This is why our demands for 2026 include not only a fair pay raise but also psychological safety and access to continuing education. But what lies behind these demands and why are they so important now?

The Current Economic Context: Growing uncertainties and increasing social polarization make these employee demands highly understandable. Technology, especially artificial intelligence, along with geopolitical tensions, add additional pressure. Investing in this area not only strengthens the employees but also secures the stability of Switzerland's economic position.

Psychological Safety Often Underestimated

Financial Security: The wage demand of up to 1.2% may seem moderate at first glance, but it addresses a real concern—the preservation of purchasing power. While energy costs have slightly decreased, fixed costs such as rent and health insurance premiums remain high. A pay raise that considers the economic situation of companies and is flexibly adapted to their needs could offer relief. This is especially critical for companies affected by American tariffs, where tact is required.

«The best response to uncertainty is not the pressure that companies exert on their employees, but trust, competence, and participation. Those who invest in people today will enhance corporate success tomorrow.»

Stefan Studer Director of Angestellte Schweiz

Psychological Safety: Often underestimated, this issue is vital. The fear of change or job loss can be paralyzing and lead employees to withdraw. This not only undermines trust but also hinders innovation. Therefore, fostering a corporate culture based on transparency and open communication is essential. If leaders remain silent about problems and employees cannot voice their fears, it ultimately harms everyone involved.

Investment in the Future: While further education may sound like a buzzword, it is crucial for long-term employability. It's not about sporadic training sessions but structured access to comprehensive learning – an investment that strengthens companies in the long term. The demand is clear: investing in the knowledge and skills of employees lays the foundation for future success.

Download the Salary Arguments

Our members can download the salary arguments for free (only in German and French).   

Are you an employee representative? Angestellte Schweiz actively supports you in salary negotiations by providing various tools, including our salary argumentarium. 

Security is Appreciation

Overall, the salary demands for 2026 underline that security has become the new currency. A salary is more than just a monthly amount—it's a sign of appreciation and a promise of stability. Angestellte Schweiz therefore calls on employers to take responsibility and create a work environment where performance and security go hand in hand.

For our demands in 2026, we rely on the latest analysis by BAK Economics (July 2025). The qualitative assessment aligns with the evaluation of Angestellte Schweiz.

 

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Author

Manuela Donati

Manuela Donati