Swiss government

Swiss voters have overwhelmingly rejected a proposal to reinterpret the country's long-standing neutrality in a stricter, more isolationist way. Final government results showed more than 70% voted against the initiative, with a majority against in all 26 cantons. The plan was championed by the right-wing Swiss People's Party, and the decisive result is being read as a firm endorsement of Switzerland's current neutral stance.

Switzerland is holding a vote on a citizens' initiative that would enshrine permanent neutrality in the constitution. Supporters argue strict neutrality would protect the country and distance it from sanctions linked to the war in Ukraine, while the government and business groups warn it could weaken ties with Western partners. The debate has renewed international attention on what Swiss neutrality means today.