Switzerland's historical neutrality under the microscope after sanctions against Russia

Historical neutrality under the microscope

Switzerland's neutrality, internationally recognized since 1815, has not been regulated in detail in law until now.

However, the war in Ukraine and the government's decision to impose sanctions on Russia have sparked debate about the future of this principle. The right-wing Swiss People's Party (SVP) argues that the country has moved away from its traditional policies and neutrality has been weakened.

"No to war, yes to neutrality"

In the campaign before the referendum, posters with the slogan "No to war, yes to neutrality" appeared, depicting white doves of peace. The initiators of the changes want Switzerland to be unable to join or cooperate with any military or defense alliances unless it is attacked.

They also propose that the country refrain from participating in sanctions unless they are approved by the UN.

According to the right-wing SVP, neutrality has protected Switzerland for the last 200 years.

Switzerland has not known war for 200 years because it is constantly armed and neutral, but in recent years the principle of neutrality has been observed less and less, said Christoph Blocher, a billionaire entrepreneur who supports SVP.

He added that due to the sanctions, Russia now perceives Switzerland as a party to the conflict.

Surveys and expert opinions

Polls show that the majority will reject the initiative promoted by the far right and described by opponents as "pro-Russian", Reuters reported.

The latest public opinion polls showed that as many as 68 percent The Swiss are against the changes, and only 31 percent supports the initiative. Professor Fabio Wasserfallen notes that most citizens support the sanctions imposed on Russia and do not want this to change.

The government and most parties are against changes

The proposal is opposed not only by the government, but also by most political parties. Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis warns that the change would harm national security and make cooperation with NATO impossible.

The government emphasizes that current practice allows for flexible adaptation of the neutrality policy to the changing international situation, while maintaining international law.

The authorities believe that introducing rigid rules into the constitution would limit the possibilities of action and would be detrimental to the country's interests, especially in the current, unstable times.