Written by: Miloš Stevanović, Attorney-at-Law

While most developed countries are facing declining birth rates and an aging population, Switzerland is engaged in a completely different debate – whether the time has come to legally limit the number of people who can live in the country. In June 2026, Swiss citizens voted on one of the most unusual political initiatives in modern Europe: a proposal that Switzerland’s population should not exceed 10 million by 2050.

The initiative, known as “No to a Switzerland of 10 Million Inhabitants,” was launched by the Swiss People’s Party (SVP), which argues that uncontrolled population growth is placing pressure on housing, transportation infrastructure, the healthcare system, and the environment. According to figures cited by supporters of the initiative, the population has increased from approximately 7.3 million in 2002 to more than 9 million today, with a significant portion of that growth resulting from immigration.

A Country of Success Confronting the Consequences of Its Success

For years, Switzerland has been a symbol of stability, high wages, security, and quality of life. As a result, it attracts large numbers of foreign workers, highly skilled professionals, and investors. Today, nearly 28% of the population consists of foreign nationals, one of the highest proportions in Europe.

However, population growth comes at a cost. Property prices and rental costs continue to rise, urban transportation networks are becoming increasingly congested, and some cantons warn of a shortage of space for further development. A portion of the population believes that the country is approaching the limits of its capacity.

What Would Happen if the Initiative Were Adopted?

The proposal provides that if the population reaches 9.5 million before 2050, the federal government must take measures to prevent it from exceeding 10 million. Such measures could include stricter immigration, asylum, and family reunification policies.

If the population nevertheless surpassed 10 million, the authorities would be required to review and potentially terminate international agreements that contribute to population growth, including the agreement with the European Union on the free movement of persons.

This aspect of the proposal has generated the greatest controversy.

The Economy Warns of Serious Consequences

Opponents of the initiative argue that restricting immigration could lead to a severe labor shortage. The Swiss economy depends heavily on foreign professionals in healthcare, finance, technology, pharmaceuticals, and construction. Major companies such as UBS, Roche, and Nestlé have openly opposed the proposal.

According to estimates from several economic institutes, long-term restrictions on the inflow of workers could slow economic growth, increase labor costs, and reduce the country’s competitiveness. Questions have also been raised about the future relationship between Switzerland and the European Union should the agreement on the free movement of workers be terminated.

A Debate That Extends Beyond Switzerland’s Borders

This initiative is significant not only for Switzerland but also as a broader test case for Europe. While some countries seek to attract as many residents as possible in order to sustain economic growth, Switzerland is raising the question of whether there are limits to sustainable development.

Interestingly, the debate is not merely about population numbers but about the kind of future citizens want. Is continued economic growth more important than preserving the current quality of life? Can small countries continue increasing their populations indefinitely without consequences for space, infrastructure, and the environment?

A Lesson for the Balkans

For countries in the region, which have been struggling with population decline and emigration for years, the Swiss debate may seem almost surreal. While Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Croatia are searching for ways to retain their populations and attract new investors, one of the world’s wealthiest nations is considering how to slow population growth.

Nevertheless, the essence of the debate is universal: every country must find a balance between economic development, social stability, and the quality of life of its citizens.

Regardless of the referendum’s final outcome, Switzerland has already opened a discussion that many developed countries may only begin to address seriously in the years ahead: is there a point at which population growth ceases to be an advantage and instead becomes a challenge?

Stevanović Law Office has a dedicated Immigration Law Department that deals not only with work and residence permit matters in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but also with migration-related issues concerning the European Union and other European countries.