Swiss voters are expected to reject a plan to define neutrality more strictly in the constitution, with two final polls suggesting well over 60% intend to vote no. The government and parliament say it would limit Switzerland’s room to manoeuvre.
The proposal would describe neutrality as “armed and perpetual,” bar closer ties with NATO, allow a military alliance only if Switzerland were attacked, and prohibit sanctions unless the United Nations called for them.
Pro-sovereignty group Pro Switzerland launched the initiative after Bern backed EU economic pressure. Nearly all major parties oppose it; the Swiss People’s Party is the sole major-party exception. Supporters say strict rules would restore neutrality’s credibility, while some opponents call the plan pro-Russian; Russia has praised it. Polls also pointed to rejection of a separate proposal to raise food self-sufficiency to 70%, from 42% in 2024.
