Switzerland Rejects Population Cap Initiative; Focus Shifts to Longer Working Lives

Switzerland has rejected an initiative proposing to cap the population at 10 million, a move welcomed by Monika Rühl, director of the business association Economiesuisse. Rühl expressed satisfaction with the outcome, noting that the broad alliance of business associations and conservative parties successfully mobilized voters.

Rühl believes voters were swayed by the desire to avoid jeopardizing freedom of movement with the EU and recognized businesses' reliance on EU and EFTA labor. She also stated that voters understood that population growth challenges cannot be solved simply by setting a cap.

“

The idea that you could close the border at ten million inhabitants and all problems would disappear did not convince.

"The idea that you could close the border at ten million inhabitants and all problems would disappear did not convince," Rühl said. She highlighted that the initiative's failure sends a clear message that the Swiss population favors regulated relations with the EU and good ties with key trading partners. A recent poll indicates a majority supports the upcoming "Bilateral III" agreements.

Economiesuisse advocated for businesses to be more visible and relatable during the campaign, featuring entrepreneurs discussing the initiative's impact. Rühl also criticized the Swiss Federal Council for "tabooing" the issue of the pension age, suggesting that working longer could help reduce immigration. She stressed that companies must also increase their contributions.

“

If we worked longer, we could reduce immigration.