Switzerland rejects neutrality rules that would have restricted cooperation with NATO
All cantons and about 70% of voters rejected the proposal to include a stricter definition of neutrality in the Swiss Constitution.
TL;DR
- Swiss voters rejected a proposal for a more restrictive definition of neutrality.
- The rejected proposal could have prevented Switzerland from imposing economic sanctions or cooperating with NATO.
- Final results show all cantons and approximately 70% of voters opposed the measure.
- Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis emphasized that Switzerland remains neutral and the vote was not against neutrality itself.
- The decision allows Switzerland to continue deciding on economic sanctions case-by-case.
- The right-wing Swiss People's Party (SVP) had argued that traditional neutrality was undermined by sanctions against Russia.
- The rejection allows for continued cooperation with partners when it strengthens Swiss security.