Swiss voters have decisively rejected a proposal to enshrine a stricter definition of the country's centuries-old neutrality in its constitution. Final results from the Federal Statistical Office show that approximately 70 percent of voters, across all cantons, opposed the motion.
The initiative, promoted by the far-right Swiss People’s Party (SVP), sought to implement a more restrictive form of neutrality. Had it passed, Switzerland would have been required to abandon economic sanctions against Russia and curb its cooperation with NATO.
Switzerland has not fought a military conflict since neutrality was established in 1815, and the principle has been enshrined in the constitution since 1848. The vote took place amid a shifting European security landscape marked by Russia's war with Ukraine and US pressure on traditional alliances. Other neutral nations, including Austria and Ireland, have recently strengthened ties with NATO and increased defense spending.
The result allows the Swiss government to continue applying its neutrality doctrine pragmatically and flexibly, preserving its ability to maintain sanctions against Russia. While Switzerland is not a member of NATO, the country continues to train and conduct joint exercises with the security alliance.