Swiss voters appear poised to turn down two high‑profile initiatives slated for the September 27 referendum, according to a poll released Wednesday. The survey, conducted for the newspapers 20 Minuten and Tamedia, interviewed 13,154 adults across the country.
Neutrality amendment faces strong opposition
Nearly 62 % of those surveyed said they would vote against the proposal backed by the right‑wing Swiss People’s Party (SVP) to tighten the definition of Switzerland’s long‑standing neutrality. The measure would embed a “perpetual and armed” neutrality clause in the constitution, barring the nation from issuing economic sanctions, joining military alliances such as NATO, or participating in third‑country wars, except in cases of direct attack or imminent threat. It would also limit Swiss involvement in sanctions to United Nations‑mandated actions and require the country to use its neutral status to promote mediation.
Only about 32 % expressed support for the amendment, and the poll notes that backing came almost exclusively from SVP voters. All other major parties – including the centre‑right FDP – were largely opposed. FDP co‑president Benjamin Muehlemann warned that the proposal would aid aggressive states, saying, “Prohibiting Switzerland from supporting international efforts in response to flagrant violations of international law would, in effect, help strengthen the aggressors’ camp.” He added that Switzerland must stand for peace, the rule of law, and democracy.
Food‑security initiative also trailing
A second referendum question – the “secure food supply initiative” – seeks to increase domestic food production, shift consumption toward more plant‑based options, and protect drinking water, soil, and biodiversity. The poll shows only 31 % in favor, with 65 % opposed, indicating the measure is also likely to be rejected.
Both initiatives will be decided by voters on the same day, alongside a range of other constitutional amendments and policy questions. The government has publicly opposed the neutrality amendment, arguing that a rigid definition could limit Switzerland’s ability to respond to international crises and undermine its role in global diplomacy.
What voters need to know
Swiss citizens will receive a ballot paper listing each proposal with a brief description. Voters can mark “yes” or “no” for each initiative. The results will be announced shortly after polls close, and any approved amendments will be incorporated into the constitution.
Given the clear majority opposition in the latest poll, analysts expect both the neutrality and food‑security measures to fail, preserving the current constitutional language on neutrality and leaving food‑policy decisions to the existing legislative framework.
For more information on voting procedures, polling locations, and the full list of referendum items, residents are encouraged to consult the official website of the Swiss Federal Chancellery.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
