Switzerland voters likely to reject neutrality initiative in September poll

A recent poll conducted by gfs. bern for the Swiss public broadcaster SRG indicates that a majority of voters intend to reject the neutrality initiative ahead of the September 27 referendum. The proposal, championed by the SVP and figures such as Christoph Blocher, seeks to enshrine perpetual and armed neutrality in the Swiss constitution, which would include restrictions on economic sanctions and military alliances.

According to the survey, 54% of respondents oppose the initiative, while 42% support it. Support is highest among SVP voters (86%) but significantly lower among supporters of the SP (86% oppose) and FDP (64% oppose). Regional divides are evident: the initiative enjoys majority support in Italian-speaking Switzerland (55%) but faces strong opposition in German-speaking Switzerland (57% against) and urban areas (59% against).

A second proposal, the “For Secure Food” initiative, which aims to increase food self-sufficiency and promote plant-based consumption, remains highly contested. Current polling shows a narrow margin, with 47% in favor and 49% opposed.