Early results on "Swiss Brexit" indicate defeat of measure that would cap population at 10 million
CBS News • • general
Key Points:
- Swiss voters rejected a right-wing initiative to cap the country's population at 10 million, with preliminary results showing nearly 53% opposed the measure amid over 57% turnout.
- The proposal, backed by the populist Swiss People's Party, aimed to restrict immigration due to concerns about strain on infrastructure, housing, and social services, but critics warned it could harm Switzerland's economic ties with the EU.
- Switzerland's population has grown by nearly 25% over the past generation, with foreigners comprising about one-third of residents, contributing significantly to key sectors like healthcare, finance, and technology.
- The initiative was opposed by the federal government, Parliament, and major business groups, while supporters called for more orderly immigration; Geneva, a major international hub, showed strong opposition to the measure.
- A "yes" vote would have forced Switzerland to limit asylum, family reunification, and residency permits by 2050, potentially jeopardizing its agreements with the EU on free movement of people.
