Swiss referendum on mandatory civic obligations and climate tax for wealthiest individuals

On Sunday, Swiss citizens are voting on whether to replace the current men-only military conscription with a mandatory civic service for both men and women, as well as on a proposal to levy a special tax on the ultra-rich to support climate initiatives. Recent polls indicate that neither measure is likely to succeed, though both have stirred considerable debate in the affluent Alpine country.

Switzerland's direct democracy allows citizens to bring almost any issue to a national vote if 100,000 signatures are collected. This system gives voters frequent opportunities to weigh in on issues at the federal, cantonal, and local levels. For the current ballot, both the Swiss government and parliament have advised rejecting the proposals, citing potential economic costs and risks.

Polling stations opened briefly Sunday morning and closed at noon local time (1100 GMT), but the majority of ballots are cast in advance, with preliminary results expected by mid-afternoon.

Civic Duty Initiative

The Civic Duty initiative initially enjoyed substantial support but has lost momentum in recent weeks. According to the latest gfs.bern survey, 64 percent of respondents oppose it. Proponents argue that requiring all Swiss citizens, regardless of gender, to serve either in the army or in a civilian capacity would foster social cohesion. "The goal is true equality," said Noemie Roten, the initiatives lead, emphasizing that the current system disadvantages both men and women by limiting access to valuable networks and experiences.

Roten explained that participation in military service, civil protection, civil service, or volunteer firefighting allows young people to contribute to the community's well-being. Opponents, however, claim the initiative does not improve equality. Cyrielle Huguenot, head of equality, family, and migration at the Swiss Trade Union Federation (USS), warned that women already shoulder the majority of unpaid work in Switzerland, and additional mandatory service would worsen the imbalance.

Inheritance Tax Proposal

The second measure, dubbed the "initiative for a future," proposes a 50-percent tax on inheritances above 50 million Swiss francs ($63 million). Drafted by the youth division of the Socialist Party, the plan would affect roughly 2,500 households. Its proponents argue that taxing the rich could generate six billion Swiss francs annually to fund climate-related projects such as building renovations, renewable energy, and public transportation improvements.

Polls suggest overwhelming opposition, with 68 percent of surveyed voters against the plan. Critics warn that imposing such a tax could drive wealthy residents out of Switzerland and harm family-owned businesses, potentially weakening the national economy.

Author: Sophia Brooks