Yes to e-ID and property tax change

There were two important votes yesterday – one on an electronic ID system and the other on how property is taxed.

It really went down to the wire – only 21,000 votes swayed the decision to bring in an e-ID law.

In the end, it was accepted by 50.4% of the people. 

The e-ID law had already been passed by parliament, but a group concerned about privacy collected enough signatures to launch a referendum.  
The government says the new e-ID will make life faster, cheaper and safer. Citizens will be able to open bank accounts or sign phone contracts online, and Swiss abroad will gain easier access to services and voting. Officials also stress it will boost cybersecurity and mark a key step in Switzerland’s digital transformation.

But those against warn the project risks repeating the mistakes of the rejected 2021 version. They argue the technology is not secure enough, leaves users exposed to cyberattacks, and threatens privacy.

Critics fear companies could track behaviour and exploit personal data for profit.

In the other vote, the way property is taxed will change as voters agree the imputed rental value tax needs to change – but there was a clear difference in the language regions. 

Voters approved the reform with 57.7 percent in favour. It means homeowners who live in their property will no longer be taxed on the so-called rental value.

A new cantonal tax on second homes will take its place. Support was strongest in German-speaking Switzerland, with Zurich, Lucerne and St. Gallen backing the change by clear margins. 

Opposition came mainly from French-speaking cantons, where Geneva, Vaud and Neuchâtel voted solidly against.

Turnout for the votes was an exceptionally strong at 50%.