Swiss referendum results clearly show that the majority of voters opposed both the proposal to require women to undergo compulsory military service and the plan to impose a new inheritance or donation tax on assets exceeding 50 million Swiss francs, citing economic burdens and the risk of capital flight.
The nationwide referendum across Switzerland on Sunday, 30 Nov 2024 GMT+7, revealed that eligible voters rejected two major proposals by a clear majority.
Regarding the "Citizen Service Initiative," which called for all Swiss women to be subject to compulsory service in the military, civil defense, or other forms, similar to current male requirements, over 84% of voters opposed it. None of the 26 cantons recorded approval rates close to this threshold.
Currently, young Swiss men are required to complete compulsory military service or join civil defense teams. Those refusing on conscientious grounds may choose alternative service, while those opting out entirely must pay a military exemption tax. Approximately 35,000 men serve compulsory military duty annually, while women may serve voluntarily.
Supporters of mandatory female military service argued the proposal would promote social unity by creating roles in areas such as environmental protection, food security, and elder care. However, most members of the Swiss Federal Assembly opposed it, mainly due to concerns over costs and economic impacts from withdrawing large numbers of young people from the workforce.
The government stated that military and civil defense personnel levels are sufficient. While compulsory service for women might be seen as a "step toward gender equality," it would impose "additional burdens on many women who already bear unpaid responsibilities for child and relative care, as well as most household duties."
The second proposal, introducing a new inheritance and donation tax on assets exceeding 50 million Swiss francs (approximately 1.993 billion THB), was rejected by more than 78% of voters.
Under the original plan, revenues from this new tax would fund efforts to combat climate change impacts and help Switzerland achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
The Swiss government opposed this proposal, arguing that approval might prompt some of the wealthiest estimated 2,500 individuals in Switzerland to emigrate. Currently, assets over 50 million Swiss francs could be taxed at a rate of 50%.
Switzerland holds four nationwide referendums annually, allowing eligible voters to directly participate in shaping national policies.
. . .AP