Switzerland will retain its existing approach to neutrality after voters on Sunday rejected a proposal to impose stricter rules on military alliances and sanctions. About 70% voted against the initiative, with all 26 cantons also rejecting it. The final result was 70.15% against and 29.85% in favour.
The initiative, promoted by the Swiss People's Party (SVP), would have added provisions requiring Switzerland to maintain 'perpetual and armed neutrality'. It would also have barred the country from joining or cooperating with military or defence alliances, except if Switzerland were under military attack or such an attack were being prepared.
