BERN: Swiss voters head to the polls today to decide on a proposal to cap the country’s population at 10 million, a move that has exposed deep divisions over immigration in the Alpine nation.
The initiative is backed by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party, which describes it as a “sustainability initiative” aimed at easing pressure on housing, public services and the environment. Opponents have dubbed it a “chaos initiative”.
Switzerland’s population has grown rapidly since 2002, when it stood at 7.3 million. It now stands at 9.1 million, 27 per cent of whom are Swiss residents born abroad.
The government, other political parties, business leaders and trade unions argue the cap will deprive hospitals and hotels of much-needed staff and damage relations with the European Union.
“If the motion is passed, Switzerland could face challenges in our relations with the EU,” said Rudolf Minsch, chief economist at business association Economiesuisse, warning that Brussels has long opposed non-members cherry-picking single market advantages.
The latest opinion polls suggest a very close vote, with 52 per cent opposed and 45 per cent in favour. A significant number of voters remain undecided.
Supporters argue unchecked immigration has led to housing shortages, gridlocked traffic and overburdened schools. Opponents say the plan scapegoats migrants and ignores the real drivers of rising costs.
“The key question is not how to exclude people,” said Social Democrat councillor Helin Genis. “It is how we create enough affordable housing, ensure good working conditions, and invest in a strong public service.”
