Organizations Pro Switzerland general meeting promotes neutrality initiative
Several hundred members of the Pro Switzerland association met in Bern on Saturday. They campaigned for the neutrality initiative and warned against strong population growth. Former Federal Councillor Christoph Blocher also made an appearance.
18.04.2026, 15:16
SDA
In his speech, Blocher recalled what he saw as the historical importance of integral neutrality. This was the only way Switzerland had been able to avoid wars: with a military deterrent capability. The long-time SVP leader once again pleaded for perpetual, armed neutrality.
The motto for Switzerland should be: Maintain friendly and open relations with the whole world, be economically active globally, but do not let the shaping of your own country out of your hands. Act with self-determination, Blocher urged.
At the start of the General Assembly, Pro Switzerland President Stephan Rietiker warned the 800 or so attendees against the creeping erosion of independence through international interdependence. Neutrality remains an indispensable pillar of the Swiss state principle. He called on the members to further develop Pro Switzerland as a strong voice for sovereignty, neutrality and direct democracy.
Switzerland's credibility as a mediator
Former Solothurn SVP National Councillor Walter Wobmann explained the core concerns of the neutrality initiative. He argued that only consistent, integral neutrality would secure Switzerland's credibility and its role as a mediator.
The adoption of unilateral, non-military coercive measures or sanctions - such as those imposed on Russia in 2022 - had damaged Switzerland's credibility and showed the need for clear constitutional regulation.
Former Bernese SVP National Councillor Adrian Amstutz warned of the consequences of the strong population growth since 2000, which has led to rising costs, a growing burden on infrastructure and increasing bureaucracy. He criticized the lack of implementation of referendums and the gradual rapprochement with the EU and NATO.
The right-wing nationalist association Pro Switzerland is the successor organization to the Action for an Independent and Neutral Switzerland (Auns).
