Switzerland

Federal referendum on 14 June 2026

Switzerland is bursting at the seams

The “Sustainability Initiative” aims to limit migration, but virtually all parties and associations are opposed to it

by Michael Straumann*

(1 May 2026) Switzerland is bursting at the seams. Rents are soaring to record levels, trains are overcrowded, and traffic jams are getting longer. In many places, the country is reaching its capacity limits. For instance, rents in Zurich – both in the city and across the canton – have recently reached an all-time high.1 Rents have risen by 21 per cent in the canton over the last 25 years, and by as much as 44 per cent in the city.

Preserving neutrality: No arms exports from Switzerland

by Daniel Funk*

(24 April 2026) The relaxation of the War Material Act jeopardises Swiss neutrality. That is why the people must decide – in favour of consistent rules that apply equally to all states.

Max Petitpierre: the courage to negotiate with the “bad guys”

by Guy Mettan,* Geneva

(10 April 2026) On Wednesday 18 March, we celebrated the 80th anniversary of the re-establishment of diplomatic relations between Switzerland and Russia (then the Soviet Union).To say the least, these relations have been tumultuous. In 1945, having just joined the Federal Council as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Max Petitpierre found himself in a very delicate situation. The two main victors of the Second World War, the United States and the Soviet Union, were angry with Switzerland because of its relations with Nazi Germany. The country found itself completely isolated. Within eighteen months, however, Max Petitpierre managed to restore relations with both the Americans and the Soviets, despite his anti-Bolshevist stance. He did so with a flair and audacity that should inspire our political leaders today.

“Sky Shield” put to the test

Are billions of taxpayers’ money being wasted?

by Andreas S.,* Austria

(3 April 2026) (CH-S) On 10 April 2024, the Federal Council decided to join the “European Sky Shield Initiative” (ESSI) project, with the approval of the Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Committees. The project, which is being implemented jointly with 22 NATO states, including Germany, but also neutral Austria, was intended, according to the then Head of the Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), Viola Amherd, to provide effective protection against missile and drone attacks.

Is Swiss neutrality immoral?

by Wolf Linder, Bern*

(20 March 2026) Voters will soon have to decide on the neutrality initiative: Should neutrality be enshrined in the Constitution? Should Switzerland support economic sanctions? Should peace efforts be strengthened? Does Switzerland want more neutrality or more NATO? Or should everything stay the same?

Russia–Ukraine: Green light for Switzerland

by Guy Mettan*, Geneva

(6 March 2026) As the war in Ukraine drags on, a small diplomatic window seems to be opening. With its tradition of neutrality and mediation, Switzerland could seize this opportunity to build on its historical role and contribute to reviving the momentum for peace.