Switzerland to vote on capping population at 10 million

International

VOTERS in Switzerland will head to the polls on June 14 in a closely watched referendum that could reshape the country’s immigration policy and its relationship with the European Union (EU).

The ballot, triggered by a proposal from the right-wing Swiss People’s Party (SVP), seeks to cap the national population at 10 million, a BBC report said.

With the current population standing at approximately 9.1 million, the initiative would compel the government to take preventive measures once the figure reaches 9.5 million.

If approved, authorities would be required to refuse entry to newcomers, including asylum seekers and family members of foreign residents, as the country approaches the limit. Should the population reach 10 million, the government would be obligated to terminate its free movement agreement with the EU, its largest trading partner.

Although Switzerland is not an EU member state, it is closely integrated with the bloc through more than 120 bilateral agreements that grant access to the EU single market and allow the free movement of people and goods.

The SVP, which has finished first in every federal election since 1999, argues that the country is facing what it describes as a “population explosion,” claiming that rising immigration is placing unsustainable pressure on public services, straining infrastructure and contributing to higher rents.

The party maintains that stricter limits are necessary to preserve quality of life and national sovereignty.

However, the proposal lacks backing from the seven-member Federal Council, Switzerland’s executive body, which governs by majority decision. The Council has voted to oppose the initiative, warning of potential economic repercussions and diplomatic strain should Switzerland be forced to end its free movement arrangement with the EU.

Despite the government’s opposition, public opinion appears divided. A poll conducted last year by Swiss-based firm Leewas suggested the proposal enjoys considerable support among voters, reflecting concerns over housing shortages, transport congestion and the pace of demographic growth.

Switzerland’s system of direct democracy allows constitutional amendments to be put to a nationwide vote if proponents collect at least 100,000 valid signatures within 18 months, a threshold the SVP successfully reached.(Georgia Olivar, USJ-R Comm Intern)