This confirmation represents a significant reassurance to the unions, particularly the OGBL and LCGB, who had made this issue a precondition for resuming broader talks.

The government had previously floated the idea of allowing company-level staff delegations to co-sign collective agreements—an initiative viewed by unions as a threat to their representative authority.

By stepping back from this proposal and agreeing to maintain the current legal framework, the government paved the way for constructive discussions on other labour issues.

Despite this limited progress, no agreement was reached on other topics such as pension reform, Sunday work, shop opening hours, working time organisation, and adjustments to the minimum social wage.

These remain on the table for future negotiations. Participants agreed to keep further discussions confidential for now, in an effort to avoid external pressures and allow room for compromise.

A follow-up meeting is scheduled for Monday, with further talks expected to take place within the Standing Committee on Labour and Employment—an institution that unions had boycotted in recent months.

Speaking at the close of the meeting in the early hours of the morning, Prime Minister Luc Frieden expressed satisfaction at the renewed dialogue, stating he was pleased that “all parties are once again engaging constructively.” He also reaffirmed that the coalition remains united in its approach to labour and social policy matters.

The Prime Minister is expected to address Parliament today to report on the outcome of these discussions. A formal debate will follow, potentially setting the tone for the next phase of negotiations.

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