Every year on June 14, people across the country come together to strike on the anniversary of when gender equality was made a matter of law in Switzerland. The event is designed to highlight women’s issues by bringing disruption to Swiss cities and cantons.
The women's strike in Switzerland is one of the largest demonstrations to be held in the country each year - 300.000 people attended strike events in 2023. The event aims to “take over” the streets with banners, protests and speeches, causing mass disruption designed to highlight women's rights issues.
The so-called “purple wave” is held annually on June 14 - the date when women’s equality under the law was approved by Swiss citizens at a referendum in 1981. Every year, the march hopes to promote the major issues women face in the present, such as unequal salaries, working hours, and premarital and reproductive rights.
The 2025 event is expected to be quite rowdy, with a statement from the official Women's Strike noting that equality "is still far from being achieved" in Switzerland. Some of the most pressing issues raised this year include ending pay discrimination between men and women, creating a minimum wage of 4.500 francs a month for all workers, calling on businesses not to abandon diversity and inclusion programmes, expanding and making childcare services more affordable, and combating sexual harassment.
The event on June 14 is set to take place across multiple cities and cantons, so drivers and commuters should expect large disruptions once the events get underway. Official women's strike events like speeches, lectures and other forms of protest usually start at 9am and continue on into the early hours of the morning - although the main marches and demonstrations usually take place from 5pm. The largest processions are held in Zurich, Bern, Geneva, Lausanne and Basel.
For more information about what strike events are taking place where you live, check out the official website.
If attendance numbers are similar to 2024, roads and motorways across all Swiss cities are expected to be affected. Check traffic reports regularly if you are planning a journey during these times and leave ample time for any possible delays.