Switzerland is holding a nationwide referendum on Sunday to decide whether to cap its population at 10 million residents. The proposal, driven by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party, aims to reduce strain on housing, public services, and the environment through what proponents call a “sustainable development initiative.” Opponents, including political parties and business leaders, argue the cap could lead to labor shortages and damage relations with the European Union, labeling it a “disorder initiative.” Switzerland’s population has grown rapidly from 7.3 million in 2002 to 9.1 million currently, with 27% being foreign-born. As a direct democracy, Switzerland frequently uses referendums to decide major issues. Recent polls suggest a close result, with 52% opposing the cap and 45% supporting it, though many voters remain undecided. If passed, the government would be required to limit immigration if the population reaches 9.5 million, potentially restricting foreign workers’ rights and jeopardizing agreements with the EU regarding freedom of movement – a move critics compare to Brexit.