The causes, spread and effects of intermunicipal cooperation and municipal mergers in Switzerland

Since the 1990s, many of the 2, 842 Swiss municipalities have reached their performance limits when fulfilling their tasks. As a response to this problem, different reforms have been introduced by the local authorities. The article focuses on the intermunicipal cooperation (IMC) and the municipal mergers that belong to the most widespread reforms in Switzerland. A survey mailed to all Swiss municipalities and thirteen case studies show that municipal mergers tend to be implemented in small, weakly performing municipalities. On the other hand, IMC is widespread among all types of municipalities. Reform-friendly authorities, intensive social contacts among the inhabitants of the municipalities, a favorable topographical location and the policies of the superordinate government level promote enthusiasm for reforms. Following mergers and cooperative ventures, the performance quality generally improves. On the other hand, this seldom eases the municipal budget situation.