Switzerland held a referendum on a proposal to cap the country’s population at 10 million by 2050 due to concerns about immigration and pressure on public services. The proposal, backed by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party (SVP), aims to prevent overcrowding as the population is projected to exceed 10 million by the early 2040s. The initiative has drawn comparisons to Britain’s Brexit vote and could impact Switzerland’s economy and its relationship with the European Union (EU).
Supporters of the cap, like Helen Gulea, a voter from Zurich, believe that exceeding 10 million could lead to more pressure on resources and services, prompting the need for restricted immigration. Concerns about overcrowding are shared across the political spectrum, with some left-leaning individuals also feeling the strain on infrastructure. The vote results are expected to start coming in shortly after midday.
If the cap proposal passes, it may lead Switzerland to reconsider its free movement of labor agreement with the EU, which is vital for the workforce. Public opinion appears divided, with a recent survey indicating a shift against the proposal, unlike earlier polls that suggested it might pass. The Swiss government and parliament have urged voters to reject the initiative, viewing it as harmful during a fragile economic period.
Johanna Alves, a student, voted against the cap, fearing it could harm the economy, healthcare, and research sectors. However, SVP lawmaker Thomas Matter argues that the country should limit immigration due to stagnant prosperity. The outcome of this initiative could affect existing treaties with the EU, and some officials believe that aspects of the proposed cap might face additional referendums. Some SVP supporters claim the proposal is a call for action rather than an outright push to end free movement.
With information from Reuters
