OMM Redaksiyası
Swiss voters have overwhelmingly rejected an initiative that sought to introduce stricter neutrality rules into the country’s Constitution, according to official results.
The proposal, titled “Safeguard Swiss neutrality”, was opposed by 70.15% of voters, while 29.85% supported it. The “no” vote led in all 26 cantons, which also had to approve the initiative for it to pass.
Initiative rejected across all cantons
Opposition exceeded 70% in Bern, Zurich, Basel Landschaft, Jura, Lucerne, Solothurn, Vaud, Neuchatel and Zug. The result was closer in Ticino, where 51.75% voted against the proposal.
Voter turnout stood at 47.06%.
The initiative would have enshrined “perpetual and armed” neutrality in the Constitution and restricted Switzerland’s ability to cooperate with military alliances or impose sanctions on countries involved in wars. Exceptions would have been made for United Nations sanctions and measures.
Government and parliament opposed proposal
The Federal Council and parliament campaigned against the initiative, saying it would reduce Switzerland’s room for manoeuvre in protecting its security, independence and prosperity.
Supporters said constitutional safeguards were necessary to shield the country’s neutrality from external pressure and preserve its credibility as a mediator and provider of good offices.
Voters also decisively rejected a separate food-related initiative. It received 27.48% support, while 72.52% voted against it.
The food proposal sought to strengthen sustainable domestic production, encourage greater consumption of plant-based foods and protect clean drinking water.
