Switzerland: Federal Council closes consultation on Federal Law on Communications Platforms and Search Engines including data access rules

On 16 February 2026, the Federal Council closes its consultation on the Federal Law on Communications Platforms and Search Engines. The Law would enable research bodies and independent civil society organisations to apply to the Federal Office of Communications (BAKOM) for access to data from communication platforms or search engines if the data serve to identify and understand systemic risks. Applications must specify the provider and data requested, guarantee data security and limited access, restrict use to the stated research purposes, and commit to publishing results freely. The BAKOM will approve qualifying applications and instruct providers to grant access within a reasonable period, with the Federal Council setting the application and processing procedures.