Switzerland to Vote on Population Cap
Switzerland is set to hold a referendum this summer regarding a proposal to limit the population to 10 million. This initiative, pushed by the Swiss People’s Party (SVP), aims to control immigration and came about after garnering enough support through petitioning.
The voting date is slated for June 14, as reported by the Federal Statistical Office, with the country’s population nearing 9.1 million. The proposal arises amid concerns over the fact that about 27% of the Swiss population is now foreign-born.
The deputy prime minister, known for advocating against increasing immigration levels, remarked that more than one million EU migrants are expected to arrive in the country in 2024. The party describes the situation as “unchecked immigration,” suggesting that most Swiss citizens face difficulties due to added strains on environmental resources and infrastructure.
They state, “Our small country is bursting at the seams,” noting issues such as urban congestion, overcrowded public transport, school shortages, rising housing costs, and increasing crime rates.
Should this measure pass, it would prevent the total population, including both citizens and foreign residents, from surpassing 10 million by 2050. If the population reaches 9.5 million, the government may implement measures to slow growth, particularly concerning asylum claims from various migrant groups.
Responses from other political parties, including centrists and leftists, have been largely negative towards the SVP’s proposal. Critics warn that adopting such restrictions could damage Switzerland’s relationships with European neighbors, especially since many foreign residents come from EU countries.
In light of the situation, senior leaders indicated a desire to maintain the Free Movement of Persons Agreement with the EU, which permits free movement and work across borders for EU nationals. They emphasized that abandoning this agreement would be a last resort if immigration restrictions aren’t effectively implemented.
