Swiss to Vote on Neutrality and NATO Ties

Swiss voters will decide in a referendum on 27 September whether to tighten the country’s neutrality rules. The proposal would bar Switzerland from joining or cooperating with military or defense alliances unless it were attacked and would allow it to join only sanctions approved by the UN.

The initiative is backed by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party (SVP). Supporters argue that the government undermined the country’s traditional neutrality by imposing sanctions on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. The Kremlin has also backed the campaign, criticizing Switzerland for aligning its sanctions with those of the EU.

The government and most political parties oppose the proposal. Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis has warned that it would harm national security and prevent Switzerland from conducting joint training with NATO. The government argues that the current model of neutrality works and does not need to be changed.

Swiss neutrality has been internationally recognized since 1815 and enshrined in the constitution since 1848, although the document does not explicitly define its scope.

Polls suggest the proposal will be rejected. One recent survey found 62% of respondents opposed and 36% in favor.

(Reuters, lud)