Switzerland holds unprecedented vote on capping population at 10 million
Swiss voters are deciding Sunday on a proposal to cap the country's population at 10 million, backed by the right-wing Swiss People's Party as part of a decades-long effort to restrict immigration. The measure would require the government to impose restrictions on asylum, family reunification, and residency permits if the population reaches 9.5 million before 2050. The vote is historically significant as no country has ever voted to limit its population, though it reflects broader European concerns about immigration and demographic change.
Switzerland is holding an unprecedented national referendum on Sunday to decide whether to cap its population at 10 million in coming decades. The proposal, backed by the populist Swiss People's Party which holds the most parliamentary seats, targets the influx of foreigners—primarily from the European Union—since 2002, when border restrictions were eased. Supporters argue that rapid population growth has strained infrastructure, housing, social programs, and natural resources, while critics contend the measure would damage Switzerland's economy and EU relations. If approved, the government would be required to implement restrictions on asylum, family reunification, and residency permits, potentially dismantling Switzerland's free movement agreement with the EU. Recent polling suggests the outcome is close. Experts note that while a yes vote would strain ties with Brussels and potentially deter foreign investment, immediate economic fallout would be limited due to the long-term implementation timeline. Switzerland's foreign-born population stands at 32% as of 2024, trailing only Luxembourg and Australia among developed nations.
What different sources said
- ABC News InternationalCenter
Vote looms in Switzerland after foes of migration put proposal to cap population at 10 million
- FortuneCenter
Switzerland to cast world’s first ever vote on whether to cap population
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