On 14/6, Swiss voters rejected a proposal to cap the nation's population at 10 million people before 2050. Preliminary results from the referendum revealed that 55% of voters opposed the measure, according to Reuters. This decision prevents the Alpine nation from jeopardizing its free movement of labor agreement with the European Union (EU), its largest trading partner. The majority decision reflects that Swiss citizens prioritize economic stability and their relationship with the EU over concerns about immigration pressure on public services, rental prices, and public order, CNN reported.

Businesses and economic associations quickly welcomed the outcome, viewing it as a positive sign for an open, globally connected Switzerland. Employers had previously warned that a population cap would stifle the supply of foreign labor, causing significant harm to the domestic economy.

The rejected proposal stipulated that if Switzerland's population exceeded 9,5 million people—a milestone potentially reached by 2031—the government would have to implement measures to prevent the population from hitting 10 million, which could occur in 2042. Upon reaching 10 million, Bern would have been compelled to terminate international treaties promoting population growth, including the free movement agreement with the EU. This agreement is a prerequisite in Switzerland's complex network of treaties with Brussels, which grants the nation access to the European single market.

Experts noted that concerns about labor shortages in healthcare and service sectors, alongside broader implications for the job market, influenced voters' choices. Many feared that a "yes" vote would directly threaten personal welfare and the labor supply crucial for daily life.

Referendums are a cornerstone of Swiss politics, with voters participating four times a year to decide national and regional issues. Some observers suggested that if approved, the proposal would resemble a "Swiss Brexit," while businesses worried it would severely impact the economy.

Currently, Switzerland has 9,1 million inhabitants, with foreigners making up nearly 28% of the population. At its current growth rate, the nation is projected to reach 10 million inhabitants by the early 2040s.

Binh Minh (According to Reuters, CNN, AP, The Guardian)