On Sunday, Swiss citizens overwhelmingly voted against a proposal that would have mandated women to undertake national service, similar to the existing requirement for men, in areas such as the military or civil protection units.
TL;DR
- Swiss citizens overwhelmingly rejected a proposal for mandatory national service for women.
- Over 84 percent of voters opposed the "citizen service initiative" requiring women to serve.
- A separate proposal for a levy on large inheritances to fund climate action also failed.
- Legislators cited financial concerns and economic impact as reasons to reject the service mandate.
During a public vote, more than 84 percent of those participating cast a vote against the “citizen service initiative”, and not a single one of the nation's 26 administrative divisions, or states, came close to approving it. For initiatives to be enacted, they require the approval of both the electorate and the cantons.
A different proposition aiming to establish a novel nationwide levy on personal contributions or legacies exceeding 50 million francs (equivalent to $62 million) was rejected by over 78% of the electorate. The funds generated were intended for combating climate change's effects and assisting Switzerland in achieving its objective of zero net greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2050.
Advocates for the national service proposal anticipated it would foster greater social unity by creating employment opportunities in sectors such as environmental protection, food stability, and elder assistance. However, legislators resisted the idea, primarily due to financial considerations and worries that it might negatively impact the economy by removing a significant number of young individuals from the labor market.
The suggestion emerged during a period when other European countries are exploring methods to bolster their armed forces amidst escalating anxieties regarding Russia's possible aggression beyond the conflict in Ukraine.
In neutral Switzerland, young men are already obligated to perform military duties or enlist in civil defense units. Individuals with conscientious objections have the option to undertake alternative forms of service, and those who choose to opt out completely are subject to an exemption charge. Annually, approximately 35,000 males participate in this compulsory service.
The unsuccessful proposal would have mandated all Swiss nationals to undertake national duty, a service women can presently opt into, and extended the notion of national safeguarding to domains outside of armed forces or emergency response.
Its proponents highlighted “landslides in the mountains, floods in the plains, cyberattacks, risks of energy shortages or war in Europe” and asserted that their proposal would necessitate universal accountability for “a stronger Switzerland that’s able to stand up to crises.”
The administration argued in response that the military and civilian protection forces possess adequate personnel, and there's no necessity to enlist more individuals than what's required.
While mandatory military duty for females could be viewed as “a step toward gender equality,” it was further noted that the concept would “place an extra burden on many women, who already shoulder a large part of the unpaid work of raising and caring for children and relatives, as well as household tasks.”
The administration likewise rejected the suggestion for a fresh levy on substantial gifts or estates, contending that adoption might encourage some of Switzerland's richest individuals—approximately 2,500 persons—to relocate. Amounts exceeding 50 million francs ($62 million) might have faced a 50% charge.
Four times annually, Switzerland conducts national votes, affording citizens a direct influence on governmental decisions.