Switzerland Weighs World’s First Binding Population Cap Amid Backlash Against Immigration

Under the text of the initiative, the resident population must not exceed 10 million before 2050.

Switzerland Weighs World’s First Binding Population Cap Amid Backlash Against Immigration

TL;DR

  • Swiss voters are deciding on a binding national population ceiling of 10 million.
  • The measure is proposed by the right-wing Swiss People's Party (SVP) and titled 'No to a 10-Million Switzerland (Sustainability Initiative).'
  • The SVP attributes housing shortages, overcrowded public transport, overstretched schools and hospitals, rising crime, and 'creeping Islamization' to uncontrolled mass immigration.
  • This vote is seen as a key test of public opinion on immigration and national identity in Europe.
  • The population cap aims to limit the resident population to 10 million before 2050.