Swiss neutrality under debate: Thousands rally in Bern for strict adherence

A significant crowd, estimated at around a thousand people, gathered in Bern on Saturday to publicly reaffirm their commitment to Switzerland's long-standing policy of strict neutrality. The demonstration, organized by proponents of the "Save Swiss Neutrality" initiative, highlighted concerns that the government is straying from this foundational principle.

Protesters carried signs with slogans such as "No to NATO!" and "Yes to Swiss neutrality!" They specifically criticized the government's increasing cooperation with NATO and its alignment with European Union sanctions imposed on Russia. This sentiment was echoed by many attendees, including 61-year-old engineer Eric Lehman from Lugano, who stated, "We have always been neutral, and I don't understand where our government is going. It's taking sides, which I don't think it should."

The rally is in support of an upcoming referendum on September 27, which will put the "Save Swiss Neutrality" initiative to a popular vote. Organizers argue that Switzerland's neutrality is not only beneficial for the country but also for Europe and the world. Former UN expert Alfred de Zayas, speaking at the event, suggested that current Swiss foreign policy is causing the nation to be perceived as less neutral on the global stage.

Switzerland has been internationally recognized as a neutral country since 1815. Its neutrality is constitutionally defined as permanent and armed. However, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has reignited domestic debates about the nation's non-involvement in foreign conflicts and the extent to which its neutrality should be maintained in the face of international crises.