Right-wing starts collecting signatures for ‘neutrality initiative’
The right-wing Swiss People's Party has officially launched its initiative, which aims to largely prohibit Switzerland from entering into defence alliances and participating in sanctions.
This content was published on
1 minute
Key-SDA/SWI-del
Português
pt
Maior partido da Suíça prepara “iniciativa da neutralidade “
The campaigners have 18 months to collect at least 100,000 signatures of Swiss citizens to prompt a nationwide vote on the proposal, which is also known as “neutrality initiative” and wants to anchor “perpetual and armed neutrality” in the country’s constitution.
According to the proposed Article 54a, Switzerland may not join any military or defence alliance. The exception is cooperation with such alliances in the event of a direct military attack on Switzerland.
Switzerland is prohibited from taking “non-military coercive measures” against warring states. It may no longer participate in sanctions and may not take any such measures. However, obligations to the United Nations remain possible. Switzerland should also be allowed to prevent the circumvention of sanctions imposed by other states.
The Swiss government recently confirmed Switzerland will not change its policy of political neutrality despite Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Swiss foreign minister backs Berset at Council of Europe
This content was published on
Cassis described Berset as the "ideal candidate" to help the Council realise its aim of ensuring security and peace in Europe.
Gay conversion therapy banned in Swiss canton of Valais
This content was published on
On Thursday, the canton approved a new Health Act which includes a ban on therapies aimed at changing sexual orientation or gender identity.
This content was published on
Some aspects of pro-Palestine sit-ins have gone too far, but the right to protest and debate must be upheld, the student association has said.
Swiss LGTBIQ helpline: attacks more than doubled in 2023
This content was published on
Three organisations jointly operating a helpline have called for more awareness, action and funding to address discrimination.
This content was published on
Switzerland's economy grew slightly at the start of 2024, with growth in the service sector contrasting with weak growth in industry.
Swiss employment rate rises in first quarter of 2024
This content was published on
The number of women and foreign nationals in employment increased particularly strongly, the Federal Statistical Office said on Thursday.
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.
Read more
More
Swiss neutrality policy to remain unchanged
This content was published on
Switzerland will not change its policy of political neutrality despite Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the government has confirmed.
Swiss neutrality is misunderstood in Ukraine, says Swiss ambassador
This content was published on
People in Ukraine do not understand the Swiss concept of neutrality, says Claude Wild, Switzerland’s ambassador to Ukraine.
This content was published on
Three anti-EU associations merged in Bern on Saturday to form Pro Suisse, the successor to the Action for an Independent and Neutral Switzerland.
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.