Patrik Odermatt, representing the Association of Swiss Debt Collection Trustees (vsi ), was appointed as a member of the expert group for restructuring proceedings for private individuals set up by the Federal Office of Justice.

Under current Swiss law, highly indebted and destitute private individuals have no opportunity to restructure their finances in the long term. Creditors, in turn, have only limited opportunities to benefit from future debtor income. In contrast to Switzerland, most European countries and the USA have procedures that allow private individuals to be released from their debts. In a report adopted on March 9, 2018, the Federal Council came to the conclusion that there is also a need for legislative action in Swiss debt collection and bankruptcy law.

If a debtor is given a second chance at a debt-free life through debt relief proceedings and can be motivated to earn an income, this benefits not only the debtor, but also the public sector and other creditors.

The group of experts led by Patrik Odermatt will examine the various implementation options on behalf of Parliament and draw up a proposal.