Introduction of a trust law in Switzerland

On a governmental level, the introduction of a Swiss law on trusts is currently being reviewed. It is argued that an introduction would have various advantages, for example citizens would be offered an instrument that is subject to the domestic legal system being more accessible and easier to understand, and providing clarity, leading to greater transparency and legal certainty. In addition, new areas of activity would be created for Swiss professionals to advise on trusts, to set up trusts and to manage trusts and their assets. This article analyses whether the trust is a suitable instrument or whether it would be more advisable to review the existing instruments, such as the Swiss family foundation or the fiducie (Treuhand), and to amend them accordingly.