Job applications for positions within the Swiss federal and cantonal governments have surged, with the number of candidates per vacancy nearly doubling since 2023.
This sharp increase in interest for public-sector roles indicates a structural shift in labor market preferences, as workers increasingly prioritize stability over private-sector opportunities.
The trend is evident across multiple regions.
In the canton of Thurgau, the average number of applications per job posting rose to 32 last year, a significant jump from previous years.
This pattern is not isolated; several other cantons are reporting similar spikes in applicant volumes, suggesting a broad-based move toward government employment.
Private-sector employers are expressing concern over the development.