Open Letter: Civil society concerned about extensive and indiscriminate data retention regime in Switzerland

European civil society groups are raising alarms over Switzerland's proposed expansion of its data retention regime. Nineteen organizations have formally communicated their apprehension to the Swiss Federal Department of Justice and Police (FDJP), urging the government to uphold stringent privacy protections. This move signals a growing tension between state surveillance capabilities and fundamental digital rights across the continent, particularly concerning the bulk collection of personal data. The core of the concern lies in the planned extension of existing data retention laws, which civil society argues is both extensive and indiscriminate. These organizations are advocating for Swiss legislation to align with the most rigorous international standards for individual privacy. The implications of such policies could lead to a significant erosion of digital privacy for citizens, mirroring debates seen elsewhere in Europe regarding mass data collection. The affected parties include all individuals whose digital communications and online activities could be subject to this expanded retention. The broader implications extend to a potential chilling effect on free expression and association, as well as increased vulnerability to data breaches. This situation highlights the ongoing struggle for digital sovereignty and the protection of personal data within European jurisdictions, pushing for a more rights-respecting approach to telecommunications data.