Why Switzerland will hold a referendum to reduce the population to 10 million by 2050?
Switzerland is set to vote on a proposal to limit its population to 10 million by 2050, driven by concerns over high immigration.
Switzerland is preparing for a significant referendum on June 14, concerning a proposal aimed at capping the countryβs population at 10 million by the year 2050. This initiative, driven by the right-wing Swiss People's Party (SVP), highlights growing worries over high levels of immigration, which some Swiss citizens feel is impacting their way of life. If passed, the amendment to the constitution would not only restrict population growth but would also involve annual adjustments by the government to account for any potential surplus births.
The proposal has sparked debate within the country, particularly around its implications for the labor market. With such a strict cap on population, critics argue that Switzerland could find itself lacking the necessary workers, particularly in sectors reliant on foreign labor. Moreover, the initiative raises concerns about the potential strain it could place on the country's relationship with the European Union, especially as Switzerland typically relies on cross-border workers to fill employment gaps.
Supporters of the measure advocate for it under the banner of "preserving what we love," framing it as a way to control immigration and prioritize the needs of existing citizens. However, this approach may also limit opportunities for asylum seekers and their families to gain permanent residency in Switzerland. As the referendum approaches, the discussions are expected to intensify, focusing on the consequences of such population policies on Swiss society and its economy.