Switzerland rejects proposal to tighten constitutional neutrality

Swiss voters have rejected a constitutional initiative aimed at tightening the nation's policy of neutrality. In a referendum held on September 27, 70.15% of voters cast a 'No' vote, rejecting a proposal promoted by the Swiss People's Party (UDC) to establish a 'permanent and armed' neutrality.

The initiative sought to constitutionally prohibit membership in military or defensive alliances and limit the government's ability to adopt sanctions against states involved in conflicts. By rejecting the measure, Swiss voters have maintained the government's ability to apply a flexible interpretation of neutrality, allowing for continued international cooperation and the use of economic sanctions.

In a separate vote during the same consultation, voters also rejected an initiative regarding food production, which had proposed strengthening national sustainable food production and promoting plant-based foods, with 72.52% voting against it.