Switzerland has mandated that all software developed by government agencies must be open-source. The Federal Act on the Use of Electronic Means for the Fulfillment of Governmental Tasks (EMBAG) requires public sector entities to adopt open-source software (OSS). The law insists that public agencies publish the source code of the software they develop, with exceptions allowed only for third-party rights or security protocols.
Why Was EMBAG Introduced?
The driving forces behind EMBAG include the need for greater transparency, enhanced security, and improved governmental efficiency. The Swiss government recognized the risks of vendor lock-in, where reliance on proprietary software limits flexibility and can lead to spiraling costs. By transitioning to open-source solutions, Switzerland aims to promote competition, encourage innovation, and ensure that government systems remain adaptable and cost-effective.
Another key motivation is national security. Open-source software allows for complete code transparency, reducing the risk of hidden vulnerabilities and ensuring that backdoors or security weaknesses are promptly identified and resolved. This move also aligns with the principles of digital sovereignty, empowering Switzerland to control and modify its digital infrastructure without being dependent on foreign vendors.
EMBAG is expected to redefine how Switzerland manages its digital infrastructure. By requiring the public release of government-developed software, the law not only promotes transparency but also supports the principle of "public money, public code," ensuring that citizens and businesses can benefit from taxpayer-funded innovations, which in turn drives the development of more efficient and user-friendly solutions.
From a financial perspective, the adoption of open-source is expected to significantly lower IT costs by avoiding expensive proprietary licenses and enabling more competitive procurement processes. Additionally, the law mandates that non-sensitive government data be “open by default,” promoting data accessibility and encouraging the creation of new applications and services based on publicly available information.
Odoo as a Leading Solution
Odoo stands as the leading open-source system ideally suited to meet the demands of this new landscape. With rapid development capabilities for complex processes, business and payment integration, banking integration, record-keeping, and document management, Odoo provides a versatile and comprehensive platform. Its scalability is unparalleled, supported by a vibrant community of developers who continuously enhance the platform.
By mandating open-source software, Switzerland is setting a global precedent in the push for transparency, security, and efficiency in government operations. The shift signals a commitment to long-term sustainability in digital governance and lays the foundation for broader international adoption of open-source principles.