Urs Wietlisbach Criticizes FDP Over EU Policy

Urs Wietlisbach, the co-founder of Partners Group and initiator of the Kompass popular initiative, has launched a sharp critique of the Swiss Free Democratic Party (FDP) regarding its strategic direction on European Union relations.

The confrontation took place on April 7, 2026, during an FDP event in Zug. Wietlisbach targeted the party and prominent supporters of EU agreements, including Council of States member Matthias Michel. Witnesses described the address as an actual «Rundumschlag», stating that Wietlisbach did not hold back while questioning the overall strategic orientation of the party.

FDP Directional Decision

The tension follows a directional decision made by the FDP in autumn 2025. During a delegates’ assembly in Bern, the party established its position on EU treaties and the Swiss electoral process.

The delegates voted 330 to 104 in favor of the EU treaties. In a separate vote, the delegates rejected the requirement for a majority of cantons, known as the Ständemehr, with 232 votes against and 189 in favor.

Constitutional and Sovereignty Concerns

Wietlisbach’s criticism centers on the party’s pursuit of closer ties with Brussels and its simultaneous effort to relativize the role of the cantons in central votes. According to the report, this approach touches upon the fundamental principles of the Swiss political system, specifically the institutional balance between the federal government, the cantons and international integration.

The Kompass initiative proponents have indicated a commitment to challenging the party’s current path, stating that they must offer public resistance to FDP exponents.