Swiss Voters Reject Stricter Neutrality Initiative by 70.2%

Swiss voters rejected a proposal to entrench stricter neutrality in the constitution on Sunday, with 70.2% voting no and all 26 cantons opposing it. The initiative, supported by Pro Schweiz and figures from the Swiss People's Party, would have defined neutrality as perpetual and armed, barred cooperation with military alliances unless Switzerland were attacked, and limited sanctions against countries at war to measures mandated by the UN Security Council. Turnout was reported at 47%. The rejection leaves Switzerland's current approach to neutrality, including its ability to adopt sanctions beyond UN mandates, in place.