Cash as a Constitutional Right: Why Switzerland Is Moving to Guarantee the Use of Cash

 

In a striking move, Swiss lawmakers have voted to support enshrining the right to use cash in the nation's constitution—a significant stance as digital payments gain ground.

This decision follows a referendum initiative led by the Swiss Liberty Movement, which garnered over 100,000 signatures, underscoring growing public sentiment that physical money remains essential.

Though mobile payments have overtaken all other methods—now accounting for 30.7% of transactions, compared to cash at 24.2%—the move reflects a deeper concern than mere payment preferences.

As the government acknowledged in its counterproposal, cash retains "major importance for the economy and society." The symbolic and practical implications are clear: cash embodies autonomy, accessibility, and resilience. (...)