Swiss voters opt for prudence, turn down gender-based service and wealth tax due to concerns about economic impact

Swiss Voters Overwhelmingly Reject Mandatory Civil Service for Women and Large Inheritance Tax

In a decisive outcome on Sunday, Swiss citizens voted against two major proposals that aimed to alter the country's civic and fiscal landscape. More than 84% opposed making civil service compulsory for women, while 78% voted down a plan to impose a significant tax on large inheritances and donations. These results highlight a preference for maintaining the current approach to civic duties and wealth management, with critics of the measures expressing concerns about economic stability and gender fairness.

Mandatory National Service for Women Fails to Gain Support

The initiative to require all Swiss citizens, including women, to participate in national service—whether through military, civil protection, or alternative roles—was firmly rejected, with 84.2% voting against it. While supporters believed such a policy could foster unity and help the country respond to challenges like climate change and energy shortages, government officials and lawmakers argued that the existing system already meets national needs. They also pointed out that extending compulsory service to women could place additional strain on those already balancing unpaid domestic work.

Inheritance Tax Proposal Also Defeated

A separate proposal to introduce a 50% tax on inheritances or donations exceeding 50 million Swiss francs (approximately $62 million) was similarly turned down by 78% of voters. Proponents saw the tax as a way to finance climate initiatives and help Switzerland achieve its net-zero emissions objectives. However, the government cautioned that such a tax could prompt wealthy individuals—estimated at around 2,500—to leave the country, potentially harming the economy. Skeptics also doubted the feasibility of the plan, noting its departure from Switzerland’s tradition of voluntary wealth redistribution.

Reflecting National Priorities and Direct Democracy

The rejection of both measures underscores the Swiss public’s cautious stance on sweeping reforms. While advocates stressed the importance of gender equality and urgent climate action, opponents emphasized the need for economic stability. The proposal for mandatory service, for example, raised concerns about potential labor shortages in sectors dependent on young workers. The inheritance tax, meanwhile, was viewed as a controversial step in a nation that values neutrality and the preservation of wealth.

Notably, no region in Switzerland supported either initiative, illustrating the difficulty of passing major reforms in a country with a strong tradition of direct democracy and political diversity. The government’s preference for gradual change over radical shifts resonated with voters who are wary of disrupting established practices.

Future Prospects and Ongoing Debates

Although these proposals were defeated, their core issues are likely to remain topics of discussion. Advocates for expanding national service, such as Noémie Roten, acknowledged the outcome but called for continued dialogue, suggesting future efforts might focus on voluntary participation. Similarly, those pushing for climate action may need to explore alternative funding strategies that do not risk driving away the country’s wealthiest residents.

Ultimately, the results reflect Switzerland’s careful balancing act between progressive aspirations and practical considerations. As international momentum builds for social responsibility and environmental action, Swiss voters have signaled a preference for gradual evolution rather than sweeping change. For now, the existing systems remain in place, with national service limited to men and no new taxes on large fortunes—demonstrating the electorate’s inclination toward stability and measured governance.