Swiss banks’ restrictive policy towards the Swiss abroad has been a major concern for nearly a decade. First steps have been taken to tackle the issue, but more progress is needed, says Remo Gysin, president of the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSA). Many expatriate Swiss have complained about losing access to Swiss banking services and about unfair conditions, notably what they consider to be excessive fees. Parliament has discussed several proposals to improve the situation without agreeing on any political measures. Gysin does not mince his words criticising both the banking sector as well as the government. He also pledges to take a critical look at the strategy used in the parliamentary process over the past few years before the organisation decides on the next steps. The OSA represents the interests of the more than 750,000-strong Swiss Abroad community living mainly in neighbouring European countries – France, Germany and Italy - but also in North America. The ...
