Switzerland to hold June vote on plan to impose 10 million population cap

Swiss voters will decide on June 14 whether to cap the country’s population at 10 million, following a proposal backed by the right-wing People’s Party (SVP). The government confirmed the date after supporters collected enough signatures to trigger a nationwide vote under Switzerland’s direct democracy system. Both the government and parliament oppose the proposal, known as the “sustainability initiative,” but a December poll showed it has support from about 48% of voters.

The proposal seeks to limit Switzerland’s population growth by largely restricting immigration once the country reaches 10 million residents. Switzerland’s population has increased by around 70% since 1960, reaching 9.1 million. The growth has been driven mainly by labor demand, high wages and the country’s quality of life.

Supporters of the initiative argue that continued immigration has put pressure on infrastructure and led to housing shortages. The rise in population in recent years has triggered political debate and public concern over living costs and access to housing.


The plan has also raised concerns about Switzerland’s agreement on the free movement of people with the European Union. If approved, the measure could affect that pact and risk disrupting other linked treaties. These agreements allow Swiss exporters access to the EU single market and help companies recruit workers from abroad. Many businesses have said access to foreign talent is essential.

Foreign nationals now make up a growing share of Switzerland’s population. Analysts say economic conditions have influenced public opinion. “GDP per capita has not grown in the last three years and real wages have declined,” said Stefan Legge, a professor at the University of St Gallen. “Quite a few people are worse off now than they were three years ago. And then you look for someone to blame.”