Swiss Voters Reject Stricter Neutrality Proposal

Swiss voters appear to have rejected a referendum to enshrine a stricter, “perpetual and armed” definition of neutrality in the constitution, with early projections showing about 71% opposed. The proposal would have restricted military cooperation with NATO and barred Switzerland from imposing sanctions without United Nations approval. Backed by the Swiss People’s Party and sovereigntist Pro Schweiz, the initiative followed Switzerland’s adoption of many EU sanctions against Russia after its invasion of Ukraine. Supporters said the proposal would restore Switzerland’s credibility as a neutral mediator, while opponents warned it would constrain security cooperation and limit the country’s response to aggression. The result reflects an ongoing debate over how Switzerland should apply its longstanding neutrality amid Europe’s changing security landscape.