Swiss voters back caution, reject gendered service and wealth tax over economic risks

Swiss voters on Sunday decisively rejected two high-profile initiatives aimed at reshaping national policy, with over 84% opposing a compulsory civil service for women and 78% rejecting a proposed tax on large inheritances or donations. The results underscored a cautious approach to expanding civic obligations and wealth redistribution, with opponents citing economic risks and concerns over gender equity.

The "citizen service initiative," which sought to extend mandatory national service to women-a requirement already in place for men-was defeated by a margin of 84.2%. The proposal would have required all Swiss citizens to contribute to national security through military, civil protection, or alternative service. Supporters argued it would enhance social cohesion and address crises like climate change and energy shortages. However, the government and lawmakers countered that existing military and civil defense forces were adequately staffed and that compulsory service for women would impose an undue burden, particularly on those already managing unpaid domestic responsibilities .

A parallel initiative to levy a 50% tax on inheritances or donations exceeding 50 million Swiss francs ($62 million) was also rejected by 78% of voters. Advocates framed the tax as a tool to fund climate action and Switzerland's net-zero emissions goals. The government, however, warned that such a measure could trigger an exodus of the country's wealthiest residents, with an estimated 2,500 high-net-worth individuals potentially relocating to avoid the tax. Critics also questioned the practicality of the proposal, noting that it diverged from existing voluntary wealth redistribution mechanisms .

The rejection of both initiatives reflected broader societal priorities. While proponents emphasized gender equality and environmental urgency, opponents highlighted economic pragmatism. For instance, the national service proposal faced skepticism over its potential to drain labor markets, particularly in sectors reliant on young workers. Similarly, the inheritance tax was seen as a politically contentious measure in a country where neutrality and wealth preservation are deeply ingrained .

The outcome also highlighted the Swiss tradition of direct democracy, with voters rejecting policy shifts that lack broad consensus. No canton supported either initiative, reinforcing the challenges of enacting sweeping reforms in a politically fragmented system . The government's stance-prioritizing stability over radical change-resonated with a majority wary of disrupting established norms.

Looking ahead, the defeated proposals may resurface in modified forms. Campaigners for the citizen service initiative, such as Noémie Roten, acknowledged the result but emphasized the importance of keeping the debate alive, suggesting future efforts could focus on voluntary engagement rather than compulsion . Meanwhile, climate advocates may need to pivot toward alternative funding mechanisms to meet emissions targets without alienating wealth holders.

The results also underscore Switzerland's delicate balancing act between progressive ideals and economic pragmatism. As global trends push for greater social responsibility and climate action, the Swiss model appears to favor incrementalism over transformative policies. For now, the status quo prevails, with mandatory service remaining male-only and wealth taxation untouched-a reflection of voter priorities in a nation accustomed to cautious governance.