Switzerland is set to vote on a referendum to limit its population size, which could lead to a collision with the European Union. The proposal, put forward by the country’s largest political grouping, the conservative activist Swiss People’s Party (SVP), aims to cap the population at 10 million.

Background

The current population of Switzerland is over 9 million, with more than a quarter of its residents being foreign-born. The SVP claims that uncontrolled immigration is causing the country to grow too quickly, leading to negative consequences in all areas of life.

Business leaders, however, warn that the proposal to cap the population risks harming the economy and leaving companies struggling to fill jobs. Jürg Müller, director of the Swiss think-tank Avenir Suisse, stated that the country is feeling the strain of recent population growth driven by its economic successes.

Consequences

If the vote passes, the government would be obliged to pass measures to curb migration in two phases. First, the government would have to refuse entry to newcomers, including asylum seekers and the families of foreign residents, once the population reaches 9.5 million. Then, if the population hits 10 million, the government would be forced to end its free-movement agreement with the EU.

Critics have warned that a yes vote could have major repercussions for the Swiss economy, which relies on foreign workers to fill many roles. Economiesuisse, the nation’s largest business union, said the proposal was a ‘dangerous boomerang’ that poses a massive threat to Swiss prosperity.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.