The Public Service Agreement is a crucial document used in Swiss public administration when engaging external contractors to provide essential public services. It serves as the primary contractual framework between public authorities and service providers, ensuring compliance with Swiss federal and cantonal procurement laws, administrative regulations, and public service requirements. The agreement typically follows a formal procurement process and must address specific public law considerations, transparency requirements, and public interest safeguards. It includes detailed provisions for service delivery, performance monitoring, public accountability, and risk management, while incorporating specific requirements from the Federal Act on Public Procurement and related regulations. The document is essential for maintaining high standards of public service delivery while ensuring efficient use of public resources and proper oversight.

1. Parties: Identification of the contracting public authority and the service provider, including their legal status and authorized representatives

2. Background: Context of the agreement, including reference to any procurement process and legal basis for the service provision

3. Definitions: Definitions of key terms used throughout the agreement, including technical and legal terminology

4. Scope of Services: Detailed description of the services to be provided, including core obligations and service standards

5. Duration and Commencement: Term of the agreement, including start date, duration, and any renewal provisions

6. Service Provider's Obligations: Key responsibilities, including compliance with laws, maintaining permits, reporting requirements

7. Authority's Obligations: Public authority's responsibilities, including provision of necessary information and access

8. Quality and Performance Standards: Required service levels, quality metrics, and performance monitoring mechanisms

9. Financial Provisions: Payment terms, pricing structure, invoicing procedures, and budget constraints

10. Compliance and Reporting: Regulatory compliance requirements, reporting obligations, and audit rights

11. Personnel Requirements: Staffing obligations, qualifications, security clearances, and training requirements

12. Liability and Insurance: Allocation of risks, insurance requirements, and limitation of liability provisions

13. Data Protection and Confidentiality: Handling of personal data, official secrets, and confidential information

14. Termination: Termination rights, procedures, and consequences

15. Dispute Resolution: Procedures for resolving disputes, including jurisdiction and applicable law