THE Swiss city of Zurich has voted to declare itself a Trade In Services Agreement (Tisa)-free zone, the Public Services International union federation reported yesterday.

A proposal to the Zurich Communal Council by the Green Party was passed by a large majority, potentially setting a precedent for other cities and regions across Europe.

Unions and civil organisations oppose the proposed agreement — negotiated in secret — for the adverse effect it will have on universal access to public services.

Corporations are pushing for deregulation and privatisation to be prioritised in the agreement, which will restrict governments’ ability to regulate public services.

Zurich joins a growing number of Swiss cities, including Lausanne and Geneva, to declare themselves Tisa-free.

Swiss Public Services Union general secretary Stephen Giger said: “The Swiss population cares about its public sector and this is what is mobilising people.”