Switzerland is preparing to put a proposal to a national referendum that would limit the country's population to 10 million people.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports, citing international media, that this initiative, spearheaded by the right-wing Swiss People's Party—the country's largest political force—is based on the argument that uncontrolled population growth places an unsustainable burden on infrastructure, housing, education, and social welfare systems.
Under the proposal, if the country's population reaches 9.5 million by 2050, strict restrictions on family reunification, residence permits, and asylum rights would be implemented.
If, despite these measures, the 10-million threshold is exceeded, the Swiss government would be forced to unilaterally terminate the free movement agreement signed with the European Union. Such a move would effectively end Switzerland's access to the European common market, a cornerstone of its economic policy.
While supporters of the initiative argue it is necessary to preserve the Swiss way of life, opponents have labeled the approach populist and unrealistic. The government, both chambers of parliament, trade unions, and business representatives have declared that this radical step would jeopardize the country's economic stability.
Experts warn that, like many other European nations, Switzerland is facing declining birth rates and a rapidly aging population. Over the next 30 years, the number of people over the age of 65 is expected to rise significantly. In this context, analysts emphasize that artificial restrictions on foreign labor could stifle production and cripple key economic sectors.
This referendum marks a unique moment in global politics, as it is the first time a nation has considered legally capping its population size. While recent polls suggest that those opposing the proposal are slightly ahead, the results are expected to be very close. The final outcome of the vote is anticipated to be known by the second half of Sunday.
Switzerland, known for its direct democracy, frequently utilizes referendums to decide on major national policy shifts. This specific vote highlights the growing tension between national sovereignty concerns and the economic realities of an integrated European labor market.
