Swiss valley offers fertility aid to reverse population decline
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The Onsernonetal valley in Switzerland is taking steps to attract and retain residents, addressing a shrinking population of around 600 people.
Local officials will begin offering financial support of up to 5,000 Swiss francs to couples undergoing in-vitro fertilization starting in 2027, a measure uncommon in Switzerland where health insurance typically does not cover the procedure. One in five couples in Switzerland experience fertility issues, and the municipality hopes to ease the financial burden of assisted reproductive technology.
Beyond fertility assistance, the valley also aims to simplify moving to the area and lower the cost of living. New residents will receive relocation funds, and the community will fund language courses to help with integration. Residents will also benefit from reduced prices on public transportation passes, firewood, and wood pellets. Tobias Luthe, a researcher at ETH Zürich, cautioned that focusing solely on growth isn’t the answer.
He emphasized the importance of creating a sustainable environment where multiple generations can thrive, pointing to a high rate of second homes, around 77 percent, that remain vacant for much of the year while newcomers struggle to find housing. Luthe advocates for flexible housing solutions and community spaces like Casa Schira, a multi-purpose building that fosters interaction between locals, tourists, and new arrivals.
The municipality aims to attract one or two new families annually to secure the future of the local school, which currently has thirteen students.
