Switzerland is preparing for a referendum on the question of whether to limit its population to 10 million, a significant consideration since the current population is approximately 9.1 million. This decision comes amid rising debates about immigration policies, which have become sensitive in the context of Switzerland's agreements with the European Union regarding the free movement of people. The situation could potentially create tensions with neighboring countries as the Swiss populace grows increasingly polarized on immigration issues.

The proposal has garnered significant support from the Swiss People's Party, which is known for its nationalistic stance and is the largest independent political force in Switzerland's parliament. Recently, a petition initiated by this party reached the necessary threshold of support, prompting the public vote scheduled for June 14. The party advocates for reinforcing immigration control measures and establishing legal frameworks to ensure that the permanent population does not exceed 10 million by the year 2050.

Currently, around 30% of Switzerland's population has foreign roots, primarily from EU member states. The proposed population cap raises concerns about the implications of reducing immigration, as the government would be mandated to implement anti-immigration measures if the population were to grow to 9.5 million. Such developments are vital to monitor as they reflect broader trends in European immigration policies and national sovereignty concerns, indicating a potential shift in how Switzerland engages both domestically and with the EU.