**Swiss Voters Set to Reject Tighter Neutrality Rules That Would Curb NATO Cooperation**
Swiss voters are poised to reject a proposal aimed at adopting a more restrictive interpretation of the country's long-standing policy of neutrality. According to projections from the state broadcaster SRF, over two-thirds of voters are expected to oppose a constitutional amendment that would have prohibited Switzerland from imposing economic sanctions or collaborating with NATO.
Historically, Swiss neutrality has been recognized since the end of the Napoleonic Wars in 1815, yet the specifics of its implementation remain undefined in the constitution. The proposed amendment sought to clarify this by stipulating that Switzerland could not join or cooperate with any military or defense alliances unless it was under direct attack. Additionally, it would have required that any sanctions imposed by Switzerland be sanctioned by the United Nations.
The proposal gained traction primarily from the right-wing Swiss People’s Party (SVP), which argued that Switzerland's traditional stance of neutrality has been compromised, particularly following the imposition of sanctions against Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine. The SVP has campaigned vigorously, utilizing posters across the nation that promote the message “No war, yes to neutrality,” featuring images of white peace doves.
Despite the SVP's efforts, recent opinion polls indicate a significant majority of voters are likely to reject the proposal. A survey conducted prior to the referendum showed 68% of respondents were against the stricter neutrality measures, with only 31% in favor.
Fabio Wasserfallen, a professor of European politics at the University of Bern, commented on the situation, stating, “Swiss voters like neutrality, but they approve of how the government is implementing it at present.” He noted that the Swiss public generally supports the sanctions against Russia and does not wish to see a reversal of this policy.
The proponents of the proposal argue that Swiss neutrality has historically benefited the country, keeping it out of both World Wars and allowing it to act as a mediator in international conflicts. Christoph Blocher, a billionaire businessman and supporter of the SVP, emphasized this point, stating, “Switzerland has not had a war for 200 years because it is permanently armed and neutral.” He expressed concern that neutrality has been increasingly disregarded in recent years, particularly in light of Switzerland's sanctions against Russia, which he claims have led Russia to view Switzerland as a participant in the conflict.
Opposition to the proposal is widespread among other political parties and the Swiss government. Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis has publicly stated that adopting the proposed restrictions would jeopardize national security and hinder Switzerland's ability to conduct military training exercises with NATO.
As the referendum approaches, it is clear that the Swiss electorate is leaning towards maintaining the current interpretation of neutrality, which allows for economic sanctions and cooperation with international defense organizations in certain circumstances. The outcome of this vote will likely have implications for Switzerland's foreign policy and its role on the international stage in the coming years.