Swiss Voters Reject Proposal to Tighten Neutrality Rules

Swiss voters rejected a proposal to adopt a more restrictive definition of neutrality, with approximately 70 percent voting against it. This amendment would have limited cooperation with military alliances and prohibited sanctions against warring nations, with exceptions. The Swiss government opposed the measure, arguing it would hinder national security and international collaboration.

• Swiss voters rejected a proposal to define neutrality more restrictively in the Constitution.
• About 70 percent of voters opposed the amendment.
• The proposal would have barred cooperation with military alliances unless attacked.
• It also aimed to prohibit sanctions against countries at war, with specific exceptions.
• Supporters, including the Swiss People’s Party, argued current neutrality was weakened by sanctions against Russia.
• The Swiss government opposed the amendment, citing negative impacts on security and international work.