Swiss holds referendum on 10 million population cap
If approved, the move could force Switzerland to scrap its free movement agreement with the European Union.
Swiss on Sunday (14/6) held a referendum to decide on a proposal to cap the population at 10 million. The constitutional amendment was put forward by the Swiss People's Party (SVP) and seeks to make the limit apply by 2050, amid concerns over immigration, pressure on public services and a housing crisis. Official projections show Switzerland's population, already above 9 million, could pass that mark in the early 2040s. The latest polls showed public support weakening, although the issue was seen as capable of shaking the economy and Switzerland's ties with the European Union. Results were expected to start coming in around midday local time.