Swiss voters reject tighter neutrality rules that would have curbed NATO cooperation
More than two-thirds voted against a proposal to write a strictly defined version of neutrality into the Swiss constitution, the latest projections showed.
Swiss citizens overwhelmingly voted down a proposed stricter form of neutrality on Sunday, according to final results from the Federal Statistical Office. All cantons and approximately 70% of voters rejected the proposal to codify a more limited version of neutrality into the Swiss constitution. This outcome does not signify a rejection of Switzerland's longstanding neutrality, which has been a cornerstone of the nation's foreign policy since the conclusion of the Napoleonic Wars in 1815.
Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis emphasized during a press conference that Switzerland's neutrality remains intact and will continue to be upheld. The Swiss People's Party (SVP), a right-wing political group, had argued that the country's traditional neutrality had been compromised due to recent sanctions imposed on Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine.
The campaign against the proposal utilized posters across Switzerland, urging citizens to vote "No war, yes to neutrality," with white peace symbols prominently displayed.
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