Swiss voters will decide on Sunday whether to back a controversial proposal to limit the country’s population in a closely watched referendum that deeply divides opinion along political and economic lines. The vote, part of Switzerland’s system of direct democracy, is expected to be tight, with opinion polls showing no clear outcome ahead of the vote.Also read: Why Switzerland voted to cap population at 10 millionPolling stations will only be open for a few hours before closing at noon (1000 GMT/3:30pm IST). Most votes have already been cast by mail, with the first results expected to be available by mid-afternoon.The far-right Swiss People’s Party (SVP) proposed the initiative, called “No to 10 million Swiss!”.Here’s everything you need to know:
- The proposal aims to prevent Switzerland’s population from exceeding 10 million (10 million rupees) before 2050.
- Its current population is about 9.1 million (9.1 million), up from 7.3 million (7.3 million) in 2002 and 8.3 million (8.3 million) 10 years ago.
- More than a quarter of the population (27%) is foreign-born, making immigration a key driver of economic growth.
- Critics say the measure could hurt industries that rely on foreign workers and strain Switzerland’s relationship with the European Union, of which it is not a member.
- If the measure passes, the Swiss government could eventually be asked to end its free movement of people agreement with the EU, which provides the country with much of its workforce.
- However, Switzerland’s largest political party, the High People’s Party, believes “drastic measures” are needed to curb so-called “mass immigration.”
- The party blames immigrants for a host of challenges, including housing shortages, rising rents, overcrowding on trains and traffic congestion.
- Despite widespread opposition from government, parliament and business groups, the proposal was put to a nationwide vote through Switzerland’s system of direct democracy.
- Under Swiss law, any initiative that collects at least 100,000 signatures from eligible voters within 18 months can be put to a referendum.
- Opinion polls suggest the referendum is likely to be hotly contested, but recent surveys have shown a slight increase in opposition to the proposal.
- According to CNN, citing polling agency gfs.bern, 52% of respondents oppose the population cap, giving the “no” camp a slim lead ahead of Sunday’s vote.
military service referendumSwiss voters will also decide on a referendum challenging a parliamentary bill that would make it more difficult to serve in the civil service. The proposal comes as European countries seek to beef up their armed forces amid heightened security concerns over conflicts in Russia and Ukraine.Switzerland has compulsory military service for men, but those with conscientious objections can choose civilian service. The government sees the growing number of people choosing to serve as a problem, while opponents warn the changes could undermine established alternatives to military service. Polls suggest the vote could be close here, too.
