The initiative proposes enshrining a stricter definition of Swiss neutrality in the constitution, POLITICO Europe reports. Under the current system, Switzerland’s permanent neutrality is recognized in international law, but Bern itself decides how to apply this policy, including on sanctions and military cooperation.
If the amendment is approved, Switzerland will not be able to impose sanctions against Russia without a UN Security Council decision, where Moscow has veto power. In addition, Bern will not be allowed to cooperate with military alliances such as NATO unless Switzerland itself is attacked or faces an immediate threat.
The dispute intensified after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine: since February 2022, the Swiss government has largely mirrored EU sanctions against Moscow, prompting a backlash from supporters of a stricter interpretation of neutrality. The amendment is being promoted by the national-conservative group Pro Schweiz, closely linked to the right-wing populist Swiss People’s Party (SVP), and a prominent role in the campaign is being played by Swiss billionaire and former Federal Council member Christoph Blocher.
Russia has openly backed the initiative. The Swiss government and all major parties except the SVP oppose it.
“This is not a vote against neutrality — neutrality is very much supported — it is about what neutrality means”, said Fabio Wasserfallen, professor of European politics at the University of Bern and a sociologist at LeeWas. According to him, the government currently has “some room for maneuver”, and the referendum question is whether voters consider that flexibility the right one.
Polls this month showed that almost two-thirds of voters oppose the initiative. Supporters say neutrality helps Switzerland maintain its mediating role and economic stability, while critics warn that codifying it too rigidly could isolate the country. Against the backdrop of worsening conditions in Europe, Switzerland is strengthening its defenses, increasing military spending, and expanding cooperation with European partners, and in November voters will separately be asked to assess rules on arms exports to a group of 25 mostly Western countries, even if they are involved in an ongoing conflict.
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