The “Safeguard Neutrality” initiative, launched by Pro Suisse and members of the Swiss People’s Party (UDC/SVP), was rejected by 70.1% of voters. Every canton voted against it. The proposal sought to enshrine a stricter interpretation of Swiss neutrality in the constitution. It was backed mainly by conservative groups, along with part of the left. The Federal Council and almost all major parties, with the exception of the UDC/SVP, opposed it.
The rejection was even stronger for the “For Safe Food” initiative. The proposal was rejected by 72.5% of voters. All cantons also voted against it. Its supporters wanted, among other things, to increase Switzerland’s food self-sufficiency and better protect groundwater resources by shifting from livestock heavy food production to a more plant-based one.
Voter turnout was around 47%.
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