Document background
The Collective Agreement Contract (Gesamtarbeitsvertrag/Convention collective de travail) is a fundamental instrument in Swiss labor relations, reflecting the country's strong tradition of social partnership between employers and employees. This document type is essential when establishing standardized working conditions and employment terms across an industry or within large organizations in Switzerland. It typically becomes necessary when there's a need to regulate employment conditions for a substantial number of workers in a systematic way, ensure fair competition among employers, or address industry-specific challenges. The agreement must comply with Swiss federal law, particularly the Code of Obligations and Federal Labor Law, while also considering cantonal regulations where applicable. It contains comprehensive provisions on wages, working hours, leave entitlements, social benefits, and dispute resolution procedures, serving as a cornerstone for stable industrial relations in Switzerland's highly regulated labor market.
