Party Neutrality in the constitution: the middle classes are divided
The anchoring of "permanent, armed neutrality" in the Federal Constitution as proposed by the Council of States is controversial. The conservative parties in particular are divided on the direct counter-proposal to the neutrality initiative.
23.12.2025, 09:01
SDA
In the summer session, the Council of States decided to present a direct counter-proposal to the popular initiative: It does not want a ban on sanctions at constitutional level. However, the small chamber would like to enshrine armed neutrality in the constitution.
The initiators describe the proposal as "neutrality light", which does not protect the core of the principle. The SVP also finds the "deliberate vagueness" problematic.
The Alliance for Swiss Security's decision not to issue a statement is a good illustration of the split in the conservative camp on the issue, as it includes representatives from the center, FDP and SVP.
The SP and GLP, on the other hand, consider a direct counter-proposal to be unnecessary. They believe it falsely suggests that there is a need for reform in neutrality policy.
