The Swiss government has urged voters to reject a proposal that would cap the country’s population at 10 million, warning the measure could harm the economy and strain relations with the European Union. The referendum, backed by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party (SVP), is scheduled for June 14 and comes as Switzerland seeks closer cooperation with the EU to maintain access to its largest trading market.

Supporters of the initiative argue that high immigration levels are driving housing shortages, rising rents, and increased pressure on public infrastructure. The proposal calls for limiting permanent residents to under 10 million by 2050 and ending Switzerland’s freedom of movement agreement with the EU, which critics say could weaken economic ties and labor mobility.

The Federal Council, along with business groups, trade unions, and cantonal leaders, has warned the plan would undermine job markets, security cooperation, and Switzerland’s humanitarian traditions. With the population already exceeding 9 million and foreign nationals accounting for more than 27%, officials say the initiative would create uncertainty during a period of global instability.

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