Switzerland Requires all Government Software to be Open Source

Switzerland has taken a bold step in the realm of digital governance and software transparency. The country has enacted a new law, known as the Federal Law on the Use of Electronic Means for the Fulfillment of Government Tasks (EMBAG), which mandates all public organizations to adopt open-source software (OSS). This pioneering move is not just about embracing the open-source ethos but also about setting a precedent for transparency, security, and efficiency in government operations.

The journey towards this landmark decision began over a decade ago, with the Swiss Federal Supreme Court’s release of its Open Justitia court application under an OSS license. This sparked a series of political and legal debates, culminating in the passing of EMBAG in 2023. The law now requires that unless third-party rights or security concerns are at stake, the source code of software developed by or for the public sector must be disclosed and released under an open-source license.

The implications of this law are far-reaching. For one, it reduces the risk of vendor lock-in, where government agencies become overly dependent on a single supplier for products and services. This move could potentially lead to reduced IT costs and improved services for taxpayers. Moreover, it allows for greater collaboration and innovation within the public sector, as companies and individuals can contribute to and improve upon the software used by the government.

Another significant aspect of the EMBAG is its requirement for the release of non-personal and non-security-sensitive government data as Open Government Data (OGD). This “open by default” approach aligns with the broader European push towards open data and software, although Switzerland has taken it a step further by enshrining it in law.

The implementation of this law is overseen by the Swiss Federal Statistical Office (BFS), which is navigating the organizational and financial aspects of OSS releases. While the transition may present challenges, the potential benefits for digital sovereignty and public sector innovation are substantial.

The adoption of open source software (OSS) policies by governments around the world has been gaining momentum, with several countries recognizing the benefits of such frameworks for their public sector IT strategies. The move towards open source in government software is driven by the desire for increased transparency, cost savings, enhanced security, and the promotion of technological sovereignty.

One of the pioneers in this domain is Brazil, which has actively pursued the implementation of open source solutions within its government operations. The country has recognized the advantages of interoperability, customizability, and the avoidance of vendor lock-in, which align with the principles of open source software.

Denmark and the Netherlands have also been at the forefront, announcing research and development policies that favor open source. These countries have cited the higher security assurance and the potential for innovation as key factors in their decision to adopt OSS policies.

The European Union has been a strong advocate for “public money, public code,” encouraging member states to consider open source solutions for government software. This approach has led to a number of EU countries adopting similar policies, aiming to create a more collaborative and open digital environment for public services.

Switzerland’s commitment to open-source software in government is a testament to the country’s forward-thinking approach to technology and governance. It serves as a model for other nations considering similar measures and underscores the importance of openness and collaboration in the digital age. As the world watches, it will be interesting to see how this decision influences global trends in government software procurement and utilization.