Switzerland considers lower social assistance for Ukrainian refugees

The Swiss federal government is considering an amendment to the Asylum Ordinance that would allow cantons to determine the level of social assistance provided to Ukrainian refugees. Currently, individuals with protection status S—a temporary status for those fleeing war—would be eligible for the same social assistance rates as Swiss nationals, which are higher than those provided to standard asylum seekers.

Mathias Reynard, President of the Conference of Cantonal Social Directors, noted that maintaining current rates would result in significant cost increases for cantons, especially since federal lump-sum payments for certain status S holders have been abolished. The proposed change would allow cantons to reduce payments to levels comparable to asylum social assistance.

While municipalities have expressed support for the amendment to manage financial burdens, aid organizations such as Caritas and the Swiss Refugee Council have warned of potential social consequences. Critics argue that reducing assistance could lead to increased poverty, legal challenges, and difficulties regarding social integration and equality.