Swiss voters are set to head to the polls on June 10 to make a pivotal decision regarding the imposition of a cap on the population of Switzerland, limiting it to 10 million inhabitants. This referendum, titled 'No to Switzerland of 10 million!', was initiated by the right-wing Swiss People's Party (SVP) and has received government endorsement. The party argues that the proposal is a necessary response to the rising cost of living, particularly the skyrocketing rents and overloaded infrastructure that have arisen from population growth in recent years.

In the backdrop of this referendum, the Swiss People's Party garnered approximately 28% of the votes in the recent 2023 parliamentary elections, underscoring its significant influence in shaping public policy in Switzerland. If the proposal is accepted, the federal government and parliament would be compelled to take action once the number of permanent residents, currently around 9.1 million, exceeds 9.5 million. This regulation would mean that newcomers, including asylum seekers and family members of foreign residents, would no longer be welcomed should the population approach this limit, indicating a potential shift in the country’s immigration policies.

The ramifications of such a population cap could be profound, as Switzerland already has around 27% of its population without Swiss passports. This raises questions about the sustainability of such a demographic restriction and the moral implications of turning away refugees and potential new citizens. As discussions surrounding immigration and population dynamics continue, the results of this June referendum could significantly influence the future socio-economic landscape of Switzerland.