Swiss voters went to the polls on Sunday to vote about whether or not they wanted to cap their population at ten million | Source: Screenshot: DW Video
Swiss voters went to the polls on Sunday to vote about whether or not they wanted to cap their population at ten million | Source: Screenshot: DW Video

Swiss voters have rejected a plan to cap the population at 10 million by 2050, with about 53 percent voting no. The proposal aimed to curb immigration in the Schengen country but raised concerns over the potential economic impact.

Voters in Switzerland have rejected a proposal to cap the country's population at 10 million, marking a setback for the anti-immigration Swiss People's Party that initiated the referendum. The campaign exposed deep divisions, with critics warning of economic disruption and strained EU relations.

Many voters feared limits on migration would also worsen labor shortages, particularly in health care, while supporters cited pressure on housing and resources. The result is seen as a vote against right-wing populism, though the immigration debate is set to continue.

Author: Ana Shorter / Katharina Kroll

First published: June 14, 2026

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Source: dw.com