BERN, Switzerland (Kashmir English): A national referendum is underway in Switzerland today (Sunday) that could set a historic precedent by introducing a legal cap on the country’s population at 10 million.
The proposal has sparked a political discussion, with supporters calling it necessary for sustainability and opponents warning the same could damage the economy and isolate the country globally.
The initiative, backed by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party, is of the view that the country’s population should not exceed 10 million by 2050.
Once the population reaches 9.5 million, the government would be required to take steps to slow growth, including restrictions on asylum approvals and limits on family reunification for foreign workers.
If the proposal gets approval, Switzerland could be compelled to reconsider international agreements, including parts of its EU-linked free movement arrangements.
Supporters argue that rapid population growth is putting pressure on the country’s housing, schools, healthcare and transport systems.
They believe that limiting immigration is essential to maintaining quality of life and protecting public services from overstrain.
Critics, however, describe the plan as unrealistic and harmful, warning it risks undermining the country’s economic stability and international relationships.
The Swiss government, several political parties, business associations and trade unions have all opposed the proposal.
Switzerland’s population
Switzerland’s population has grown from 7.3 million in 2002 to about 9.1 million today, with nearly 27% of residents born abroad.
Supporters of capping the population say this growth has contributed to overcrowding, rising rents and rising healthcare costs.
