Justice Minister Beat Jans has launched the federal government’s campaign against the Swiss People's Party initiative known as “No to a 10 Million Switzerland.”
Speaking in Bern, Jans warned the proposal could jeopardise Switzerland’s bilateral agreements with the European Union.
The initiative goes to a vote on June fourteenth. It aims to cap the population at ten million by 2050 and could mean ending free movement with the EU.
Cantons and employers warn that could worsen labour shortages, especially in rural areas and the health sector.
There are also concerns it could threaten Switzerland's membership of the Schengen passport free zone and the Dublin Accord on repatriating illegal immigrants.
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