Switzerland will hold a referendum proposed by the Swiss People's Party to limit the permanent population to 10 million by 2050, which could have significant impacts on immigration and economic relations with the EU.
Switzerland is set to hold a referendum this summer on a proposal from the right-wing populist Swiss People's Party (SVP), aiming to cap the country's permanent population at 10 million by the year 2050. According to the proposal, the Swiss government and parliament will be mandated to limit immigration if the population exceeds 9.5 million. Potential consequences of reaching the 10 million mark include the introduction of additional restrictions and the possibility that the government would have to abandon its free movement agreement with the European Union, a critical trading partner for Switzerland.
Currently, Switzerland has a resident population of approximately 9.1 million, with 27% being non-citizens. The proposal has been met with resistance from a majority of political parties represented in the Swiss parliament, alongside significant pushback from the country’s largest companies. Opponents argue that implementing such a limitation could severely damage Switzerland's relationship with the EU and hinder the ability to attract highly skilled labor, which is essential for sustaining the nation's economic growth.
The implications of the proposed population cap are far-reaching, not only affecting immigration policies but also broader economic stability and Switzerland’s standing in international relations. As the nation contemplates such a significant shift in policy, the outcome of this referendum could set a precedent for how Switzerland navigates its future demographic challenges and maintains its competitive edge in the global economy.
