Swiss neutrality debate deepens as political chambers clash over constitutional reform

Switzerland's political chambers remain split over how to handle the neutrality initiative, which seeks to enshrine permanent armed neutrality and restrict sanctions in the constitution. The Council of States narrowly voted in favour of a direct counterproposal, defying both the National Council and the Federal Council's opposition to constitutional changes. The decision now leaves the final outcome in the hands of the National Council before a public vote is held.

The Council of States' debate ended in a deadlock, with 21 votes on each side and one abstention. The tie was broken by Council President Stefan Engler, who sided with the minority faction supporting a counterproposal. This group included members from the Swiss People's Party (SVP) and The Centre, who argued for clearer constitutional rules on neutrality.

Hannes Germann (SVP/SH) stressed that recent global crises, particularly the Ukraine war, had made it urgent to define Switzerland's stance. Public opinion appears to back this view, with polls from 2023 to 2025 showing 70–85% support for constitutional neutrality—up from around 60% before 2022. Supporters like Daniel Jositsch (SP/ZH) and Beat Rieder (The Centre/VS) claimed the counterproposal would provide much-needed clarity on when Switzerland must stay neutral. Opponents, however, warned of complications. Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis argued that a counterproposal could weaken efforts to persuade voters against the initiative. The original proposal itself demands permanent armed neutrality and a near-total ban on sanctions, allowing only those approved by the UN. The National Council will now decide whether to adopt the counterproposal or reject it outright. Regardless of its choice, the neutrality initiative will proceed to a nationwide and cantonal vote.

The Council of States' narrow decision keeps the neutrality debate alive, but the National Council holds the next key vote. If approved, the counterproposal will shape the public's final decision in the referendum. Without it, voters will choose between the original initiative and the status quo.