Why is Switzerland voting on population limit?

Swiss citizens are set to vote on Sunday, June 14, on a proposal to cap the nation’s population at 10 million.

The move aims to change immigration policy and strain relations with the European Union. The proposal, led by the far-right Swiss People’s Party (SVP), claims that there is increasing strain on areas such as accommodation, transportation, healthcare, and the environment. 

The population of Switzerland has risen from 7.3 million in 2002 to 9.1 million at present, with 80% of the increase due to immigration.

Switzerland has maintained an extremely stable economy, widely regarded as the best sanctuary for investments and banks worldwide. Switzerland is considered one of the most developed countries and one of the most respected nations from a political point of view. This is largely because of the extremely cordial relationships it maintains with most nations worldwide.

Nils Fiechter, a SVP politician, defended the decision, saying: “Unchecked immigration is leading to Switzerland no longer being Switzerland.”

If approved, the move will put strict restrictions on asylum seekers and family reunification once the population reaches 9.5 million. After crossing the 10 million threshold, Switzerland will terminate its free-movement agreement with the EU.

Experts claim that the move can contribute to a “Swiss Brexit,” isolating Switzerland economically, and damage relations with its largest trading partner.