Swiss voters have overwhelmingly rejected a proposal to make national service compulsory for women, a requirement currently applicable only to men.
The “citizen service initiative” aimed to extend mandatory military, civil protection, or similar service duties to all citizens, but failed as the majority of both voters and cantons opposed it.
Supporters said the measure would strengthen social cohesion and address urgent risks such as natural disasters, cyber threats, and European security challenges. They emphasised the need for shared responsibility in sectors like environmental protection, food security, and care for the elderly. They stated the initiative would help build “a stronger Switzerland capable of facing crises.”
The government and many lawmakers opposed the plan due to concerns about the economic impact of removing many young people from the workforce. They also noted military and civil protection units are already adequately staffed.
Officials stressed that compulsory service for women could add to their existing burden of unpaid caregiving and household tasks, observing it “would not represent a step forward in terms of equality” since true workplace equality has not yet been achieved.
Alongside this vote, citizens also turned down a proposed tax on inheritances and donations exceeding 50 million francs. The tax was intended to fund climate goals, but fears that it would drive wealthy residents abroad contributed to its rejection.