Swiss voters have rejected proposals to introduce compulsory civic service for all and a climate tax on the super-rich, according to referendum results.
GENEVA: Swiss voters have rejected two landmark proposals in a national referendum, maintaining the country’s current military conscription system and rejecting a new climate tax on large inheritances.
The civic duty initiative sought to replace Switzerland’s men-only military conscription with compulsory service for all citizens regardless of gender.
The proposal argued this would achieve “true equality” and strengthen social cohesion by including women in national service networks and experiences.
Opponents countered that the initiative would exacerbate existing imbalances since women already perform most unpaid tasks in Swiss society.
The latest pre-vote polling showed 64% of respondents opposed the measure.
The climate tax initiative, proposed by the youth wing of Switzerland’s Socialist Party, called for a 50% inheritance tax on fortunes exceeding 50 million Swiss francs (RM263 million).
Supporters estimated this would affect approximately 2,500 households and generate six billion Swiss francs annually for climate initiatives.
Campaigners argued the funds could finance ecological transformation through building renovations, renewable energy development and public transportation expansion under the slogan “tax the rich, save the climate”.
Critics warned the measure could drive wealthy individuals from Switzerland and harm family business inheritors.
Pre-referendum polling indicated 68% opposition to the climate tax proposal.
The Swiss government and parliament had urged voters to reject both initiatives, citing potential economic threats and significant costs.
Switzerland’s direct democratic system requires only 100,000 signatures to put issues to popular vote, with citizens regularly deciding on national, regional and local matters.
