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Tensions over initiative and EU talks

Monday, 22 September 2025 06:30

Federal Palace, Bern - file image

Tension is rising in Bern as the National Assembly tackles the SVP’s “No Switzerland of 10 million” initiative today.

The proposal, echoing the 2014 vote against mass immigration, directly threatens free movement and could unravel the entire network of bilateral agreements with the EU. 

Lawmakers face two dilemmas: timing, since the initiative’s guillotine effect collides with upcoming EU negotiations and strategy, whether to oppose outright or present a counter-proposal. 

The debate is fuelled by public unease over rapid population growth.

Whatever the outcome, this marks only the beginning of a long and contentious chapter in Swiss–EU relations.

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