10m initiative may lead to retirement age rise

Supporters of the Swiss People’s Party’s “10 million Switzerland” initiative are facing criticism after admitting that restricting immigration could eventually lead to a higher retirement age.

During parliamentary discussions, members of the initiative committee acknowledged that, with Switzerland’s aging population and labour shortages, people may need to work one or even two years longer in future.

The comments are politically sensitive, as the SVP has so far avoided publicly linking its immigration proposal to pension reform.

Opponents say the statements reveal the real economic consequences of limiting foreign workers, warning the measure could push the retirement age to 67 or beyond.

More from Bitesize News

Download our app

  • Available on the App Store
  • Available on Google Play