Bern, Switzerland – Swiss voters rejected a popular proposal to limit the country’s population to 10 million. The referendum reflected a clear divergence between concerns
about immigration and the need to maintain economic stability and ties with the European Union.
Fears of economic repercussions
Official projections published by Swiss public broadcaster SRF showed
that approximately 55% of voters rejected the proposal, while 45% supported it.
This result settled the debate surrounding a constitutional amendment that aimed to impose a population cap by 2050.
The initiative, put forward by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party, came amidst a broad internal debate
about the impact of population growth on public services, the rental market, and infrastructure.
Concerns were also raised about increasing pressure on the labor market.
According to the proposal, Switzerland’s population was supposed to not exceed 10 million by 2050.
Furthermore, freedom of movement with the European Union could be terminated if this limit was exceeded.
Impact of relations with the European Union
Opponents of the initiative warned that its passage would strain relations
with the European Union, Switzerland’s largest trading partner.
They also argued that it could threaten the free movement of labor, a cornerstone of the Swiss economy.
Analysts noted that concerns about the economic fallout played a pivotal role in voters’ decisions.
There were also worries about labor shortages in vital sectors such as healthcare and services.
Internal discussion about immigration
Despite the rejection of the proposal, the vote revealed a growing trend
within Swiss society toward supporting stricter immigration policies.
This comes against the backdrop of a rising percentage of foreigners, who now represent approximately 28% of the population.
Opinion polls confirmed a turnout of around 58%, one of the highest participation
rates in Swiss referendums in recent years. This reflects the level of public interest in the issue.
Observers believe that the referendum result will not end the debate on immigration,
but rather will keep it among the most prominent political issues in Switzerland in the coming period.
Some predict this trend will continue, especially given the ongoing economic and demographic pressures in Europe.
