Swiss government rejects proposed constitutional ban on non-UN sanctions ahead of neutrality vote

The Swiss government has formally rejected a popular initiative seeking to enshrine a rigid, absolute definition of neutrality into the country’s constitution, warning the move would cripple national security and diplomatic flexibility.

The constitutional referendum, scheduled for 27 September, was triggered after right-wing campaign groups backed by the Swiss People’s Party gathered over 100,000 signatures. Proponents argue Bern’s historical stance has been diluted by adopting European Union sanctions against Russia over its war in Ukraine and deepening training ties with NATO.

If passed, the amendment would constitutionally mandate that Swiss neutrality remain perpetual and armed, while explicitly barring non-UN sanctions and foreign military alliances.

Launching the official counter-campaign on Tuesday, Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis insisted the nation’s neutrality remains intact without need for restrictive legal amendments.

“Switzerland has been and is neutral, and it will remain neutral,” Cassis said in a statement, adding that the proposal would severely hinder security cooperation with international partners prior to an actual crisis.

Current polling indicates low public support for the initiative, with a Tamedia survey showing 54 per cent of voters opposed compared to 34 per cent in favour.