Arms exports Alliance collects signatures against relaxed arms export rules
An alliance comprising the SP, Greens, EPP, opponents of the armed forces and NGOs launched a referendum on Tuesday against the loosening of the law on war material adopted by Parliament. In order for the electorate to be able to vote on it, 50,000 signatures are required by April 17.
07.01.2026, 11:00
07.01.2026, 11:59
SDA
In December, the Federal Assembly softened the export rules for war material in consideration of Swiss arms companies - by 122 votes to 68 with 6 abstentions in the National Council and 31 votes to 11 with one abstention in the Council of States. Even then, opponents announced their intention to fight the reform, known as the "Lex Armaments Industry".
Now a broad alliance consisting of political parties, peace organizations, NGOs and church associations is getting serious. Exports of Swiss war material to civil war countries and unjust regimes must be prevented, write the opponents of the bill.
If the conservative majority has its way, 25 Western countries should also be able to be supplied in future if they are in an armed conflict.
