Switzerland plans mandatory reporting for organized crime

The Swiss federal government and cantons are planning to introduce a mandatory reporting requirement for any indicators of organized crime. This measure aims to prevent the infiltration of the economy and society by criminal networks, including drug trafficking, human trafficking, and cybercriminals.

Under the proposed plan, cantonal and municipal employees—such as land registry officials, food inspectors, and labor market inspectors—would be required to inform law enforcement if they encounter evidence of organized crime, such as suspicious real estate purchases or money laundering.

Eva Wildi-Cortés, Director of the Federal Office of Police (Fedpol), confirmed the plan, noting that the cantons proposed the requirement following a consultation process. While the federal government initially considered a voluntary reporting right, the new mandate would require officials to report findings. The government aims to finalize this requirement by the end of the year as part of a national action plan to combat organized crime.