The EU-Swiss Sectoral Approach Under Pressure: Not Least Because of Brexit

Switzerland's legal relationship with the European Union (EU) represents a unique model. Attractive as it may seem to certain other states, it is also a model under political pressure, both from the inside and the outside. This concerns notably the debate in Switzerland around the issue of migration from the EU to Switzerland and the demand of the EU for a renewed institutional framework for certain market agreements with the EU that has led to negotiations on this matter. Whilst Switzerland is seeking special solutions in both respects, the EU's rhetoric is increasingly emphasising the need for homogeneity in the internal market. The developments around Brexit have not made matters simpler and are themselves influenced by the situation in relation to Switzerland.