Citizens of Switzerland appear poised to vote down a referendum measure that would establish a population ceiling of 10 million residents, a new opinion survey indicates.
Worries about Switzerland’s rapidly expanding population, which rose from 7.3 million in 2002 to 9.1 million last year, and the strain on public services have driven backing for the measure.
The referendum, scheduled for June 14, would require that the permanent resident population stay below 10 million through 2050 and would terminate Switzerland’s freedom of movement agreement with the European Union.
The survey, conducted by GFS Bern for public broadcaster SRG between May 19 and May 27, found approximately 52% of 19,400 participants opposing the measure, while 45% expressed support. The remaining respondents were undecided.
An earlier survey from late April revealed Swiss voters were evenly divided, with 47% supporting and 47% opposing the proposal.
The Swiss government opposes the measure, which was introduced by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party (SVP), arguing it would harm relations with the EU, Switzerland’s primary trading partner, and damage the economy.
Those backing the proposal have expressed worries about infrastructure strain, especially regarding housing, transportation, schools and hospitals, due to increased immigration.
Additional arguments from supporters include using immigration restrictions to safeguard the environment from population growth and to reduce crime and violence.
Those opposing the measure worry about potential conflicts with the EU that immigration limits would create, while others argue Switzerland requires foreign skilled workers.
