Switzerland: Voters reject stricter view of neutrality
Early projections show Swiss voters rejecting a stricter application of the country's vaunted neutrality. Swiss neutrality has been enshrined in the constitution since 1848.
Swiss voters are projected to reject a proposal for stricter neutrality in a recent referendum, according to state broadcaster SRF. The initiative, promoted by the right-wing Pro Schweiz association, claims the Swiss government has grown too close to the EU and NATO following Russia's conflict in Ukraine. Despite Swiss neutrality being part of the constitution since 1848, the exact implementation remains unclear.
Earlier polls indicated the move did not have enough support to pass the referendum, with 63% of respondents planning to vote against it and 34% backing it. All major political parties, except the hard-right Swiss People's Party, opposed the initiative. SVP vice president Celine Amaudruz argued for perpetual armed neutrality to maintain credibility.
Opponents argued that neutrality cannot hide perpetrators and victims equally in the modern world. The referendum on food security also took place, with 28% of voters supporting it and 72% rejecting it. The aim of this initiative is to ensure Switzerland produces more of its own food.
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