Swiss voters reject stricter neutrality rules

Swiss voters have rejected a proposal to put stricter neutrality rules in the constitution, with about 70% of votes cast against it. The measure would have barred closer ties with military alliances such as Nato and allowed sanctions only if the United Nations had approved them. [1]

The far-right Swiss People’s Party (SVP), which initiated the referendum, argued that permanent neutrality would help promote peace and diplomacy. Almost all other parties opposed the plan. They said they valued neutrality but considered the proposed rules too rigid. [1]

The vote follows Switzerland’s decision to impose sanctions on Russians after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The Kremlin welcomed the proposed change, while some opponents described it as pro-Russian. [1]