Switzerland held a referendum on Sunday to decide whether to cap its population at 10 million residents by 2050, a proposal driven by concerns over immigration and strain on public resources. The initiative, spearheaded by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party, could significantly impact the country’s economy and its relationship with the European Union. If approved, exceeding the population limit could lead to the termination of Switzerland’s free movement of labour agreement with the EU, a key source of its workforce. Current projections indicate Switzerland’s population will surpass 10 million in the early 2040s. Public opinion is divided, with recent polls suggesting a shift against the proposal, though earlier surveys indicated a possible passage. Experts highlight growing anxieties about overcrowding and the capacity of public infrastructure. Results are expected to be announced midday Sunday.
