Switzerland to Vote on Controversial Population Limit Proposal in June

Switzerland is set to hold a historic referendum on June 14 regarding a proposal from the Swiss People's Party (SVP) to cap the national population at 10 million. Currently, the population stands at 9.1 million, and if the measure passes, the government would be required to restrict immigration once the population reaches 9.5 million. This would also necessitate ending the free movement agreement with the European Union, Switzerland's largest trading partner. The SVP argues that rapid population growth is straining public services and infrastructure, despite opposition from the Federal Council. A recent survey indicates significant public support for the initiative.

Key Details: • Referendum scheduled for June 14, 2023. • Current population is 9.1 million; limit set at 10 million. • Government must restrict immigration at 9.5 million. • Ending the EU free movement agreement if population reaches 10 million. • SVP claims population growth is straining public resources.