Switzerland Approves CHF 50,000 Solidarity Payments for Fire Victims

The Swiss Council of States has approved a solidarity payment of CHF 50,000 per victim of the Crans-Montana fire disaster. The decision follows a proposal by the Federal Council to provide rapid, unbureaucratic aid to those affected by the tragedy. Only the canton of Valais had previously taken an official stance, backing a 10-million-franc foundation for victims and future prevention efforts.

The fire, which claimed 41 lives and left over a hundred injured, has prompted urgent federal action. Justice Minister Beat Jans argued that existing support systems were overwhelmed by the scale of the disaster, requiring new measures.

The Federal Council put forward an emergency law to address the crisis. This included a flat-rate solidarity payment and the creation of a 'round table' for out-of-court settlements. The Council of States expanded the proposal by adding a recourse mechanism, allowing the government to reclaim funds from liable parties after compensating victims.

Benedikt Würth of the Centre Party stressed the need for swift support, while most members rejected Pirmin Schwander's opposing view. The canton of Valais, already active in relief efforts, will manage the distribution of payments. With around 156 eligible recipients, total federal contributions could reach CHF 36 million, including an additional CHF 7.8 million from the government (CHF 50,000 per affected individual).

Valais had earlier unanimously supported a 10-million-franc foundation in its Great Council, focusing on immediate aid and disaster prevention. No other Swiss cantons have yet taken an official position on the federal contributions.

The Council of States' decision ensures that victims and families of the deceased will receive financial assistance without unnecessary delays. The law also provides a framework for recovering costs from those responsible, balancing urgency with accountability.

The approved measures will see CHF 50,000 paid to each victim or bereaved family, with Valais overseeing distributions. Total federal spending is expected to reach around CHF 36 million, covering both direct aid and administrative costs. The law now includes provisions for reclaiming funds from responsible parties, ensuring long-term financial responsibility.