Why Switzerland is voting to cap its population at 10 million

Published 13 June 2026 · europe

A poster reading "Isolate ourselves from Europe? Certainly not now! - No to the SVP/UDC Chaos initiative" Why Switzerland is debating a population cap How

A poster reading "Isolate ourselves from Europe? Certainly not now! - No to the SVP/UDC Chaos initiative" Why Switzerland is debating a population cap How the proposal would work Economic fears and concerns about isolation Switzerland heads to the polls on Sunday to decide on a proposal that could make it the first European country to impose a formal limit on its population. The referendum asks voters whether the country’s population should be capped at 10 million by 2050, a measure that has triggered a fierce debate over immigration, economic growth and Switzerland’s future relationship with the European Union.The proposal has been put forward by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party (SVP), which argues that rapid population growth is placing unsustainable pressure on housing, transport, schools, healthcare and the environment. Supporters say the initiative is about protecting Switzerland’s quality of life and ensuring growth remains manageable.Opponents, however, warn that the measure could damage the economy, worsen labour shortages and push Switzerland towards isolation from Europe. With opinion polls suggesting a tight race, the referendum has been described by some politicians as a potential "Brexit moment" for Switzerland.Switzerland’s population has grown rapidly over the past two decades.

Since the country’s free movement agreement with the EU came into force in 2002, the population has risen from around 7.3 million to more than 9.1 million. Today, roughly 27% of residents are foreign nationals, one of the highest proportions in Europe.The SVP argues that "uncontrolled immigration is causing Switzerland to grow far too quickly" and says the consequences are being felt across daily life. Supporters point to overcrowded trains, rising housing costs, traffic congestion and pressure on public services as evidence that the country is reaching its limits.Many voters share concerns about expensive apartments, growing demand for healthcare and strain on infrastructure. Campaigners backing the initiative say population growth is outpacing Switzerland’s ability to expand housing, transport networks and public services.Critics reject that argument, saying migrants are being blamed for problems caused by political and economic decisions. Delphine Klopfenstein of the Green Party described the proposal as "utterly xenophobic", arguing that it makes foreigners scapegoats for wider social challenges.The initiative would require the government to ensure Switzerland’s population does not exceed 10 million before 2050.If the population reaches 9.5 million, authorities would be required to introduce measures to curb migration.