The adoption of open source software (OSS) is revolutionizing how the public sector operates, and Switzerland is leading this transformative wave. By embracing OSS, the Swiss government is not just cutting costs, but is enhancing transparency, security, and efficiency. This shift is a significant moment for the public sector and businesses alike, marking a major step towards data sovereignty.
As other countries look on, Switzerland’s pioneering approach could serve as a model for embracing open source solutions like Postgres. Read on to learn more about how we got here.
Switzerland's Open Source Mandate
In May 2023, Switzerland enacted the Federal Law on the Use of Electronic Means for the Fulfillment of Government Tasks (EMBAG). This trailblazing legislation mandates the release of open source software developed by or for the federal government. Under this law, public entities are required to disclose their source code, unless constrained by third-party rights or security concerns. This approach aims to foster greater transparency, security, and operational efficiency within the public sector.
The EMBAG represents a major shift from previous norms. For over a decade, Switzerland grappled with the challenges of open source, including heated legal and political battles with proprietary software advocates. The decision to pass EMBAG in 2023 follows a series of earlier efforts, such as the Swiss Federal Supreme Court's 2011 release of Open Justitia under an OSS license. This evolution highlights a commitment to openness and data sovereignty, positioning Switzerland as a global leader in the open source movement.
Open Source Progress
Initially met with strong resistance from the business community, the open source movement struggled for decades to gain traction. Despite this, the concept of free and open software gradually proved its worth, becoming mainstream over the past 40 years. Now, more than 78% of businesses use open source software in their daily operations, and 96% of software contains some open source components.
For the public sector, these benefits translate into significant cost savings and operational improvements such as accelerated time to market and increased developer productivity. According to a Harvard Business School study, open source software has saved companies nearly $9 trillion in development costs in recent years.
The open source revolution is driven by clear and significant advantages over proprietary software. Unlike proprietary software, OSS allows for unrestricted access to source code, enabling users to modify, distribute, and examine the software. This openness not only fosters greater transparency, but also supports collaboration and innovation.
Open source software like Postgres delivers enhanced security, efficiency, and reduced vendor lock-in. Known for its robustness, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, Postgres exemplifies the benefits of OSS. EDB, a leading Postgres contributor, plays a crucial role in supporting the adoption and implementation of Postgres within the public sector. EDB’s contributions help organizations leverage the full potential of Postgres while addressing any technical or operational challenges.
Today, open source software demonstrates its potential to redefine how technology is used to unlock public value. The Swiss government’s open source adoption is expected to lower IT costs and improve services for taxpayers by reducing dependence on expensive proprietary solutions. EMBAG is a testament to this transformation, showcasing how open source can drive positive change within the public sector and beyond.
A Model for the Future
Switzerland’s legislative advancements in open source set a powerful example for other countries around the globe. By mandating the release of government-developed software and supporting open source initiatives, Switzerland is pioneering a path toward greater data sovereignty and collaboration.
As the world looks to Switzerland’s example, the principles of transparency, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness represented in the EMBAG could inspire similar legislative efforts globally, driving a new era of openness and collaboration in technology.