Swiss citizens have voted decisively against a proposal to tighten the nation’s longstanding policy of neutrality, according to early projections released Sunday. The state broadcaster SRF reported that 71% of voters opposed the initiative, while only 29% supported it.
The referendum sought to codify a rigid interpretation of Switzerland’s neutral stance into the constitution. Proponents, led by the right-wing Pro Schweiz association, argued that Bern has drifted too close to European Union and NATO frameworks since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. The group called for neutrality to be applied “permanently and without exception,” maintaining that Switzerland must retain a defensive military capacity, avoid involvement in third-party conflicts, and refrain from joining defense alliances unless directly attacked.
Additionally, the initiative demanded that the United Nations approve any sanctions before Switzerland implements them. Swiss neutrality has been a cornerstone of national identity since the end of the Napoleonic Wars in 1815 and was formally enshrined in the constitution in 1848, though the specific parameters of its application have historically lacked precise definition.
Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis opposed the measure, arguing that strict neutrality is insufficient in the modern geopolitical landscape. “Neutrality has always been applied with a degree of flexibility,” Cassis stated during a televised debate, emphasizing that countries cannot treat aggressors and victims as equals under such a blanket policy.
Most major political parties rejected the initiative, with the hard-right Swiss People’s Party (SVP) being the sole exception. SVP vice president Celine Amaudruz defended the proposal, stating, “Our goal is to foster peace, diplomacy and dialogue. To achieve that, we must maintain credibility through perpetual armed neutrality.”
Public opinion polls conducted prior to the vote indicated strong opposition to the measure. A survey by the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation found that 63% of respondents planned to vote against the initiative, compared to just 34% in favor.
In a concurrent vote on food security, voters also rejected an initiative requiring Switzerland to produce significantly more of its own food to ensure access to affordable, high-quality provisions. SRF figures showed 72% voting against the food security proposal, with only 28% in support.
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