Switzerland to vote in controversial referendum that could cut off country's population at 10 million

Switzerland is preparing to vote on a controversial proposal that could cap the country’s population at 10 million.

The referendum, set for June 14, has been put forward by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party (SVP), which argues that the country is experiencing what it calls a 'population explosion.'

Switzerland’s population currently stands at around 9.1 million, meaning the proposed cap would take effect within the next few years, as CNN reports.

Under the plan, the government would be required to act once the population reaches 9.5 million.

Then, entry for newcomers such as asylum seekers would be introduced, and even family reunification for foreign residents already living in the country.

If the population were to reach 10 million, Switzerland would be obliged to end its free-movement agreement with the European Union (EU).

The vote goes ahead in June (ImageBROKER/Valentin Wolf/Getty Images)

Although Switzerland is not a member of the EU, it is closely tied to the bloc through more than 120 bilateral agreements, giving it access to the EU single market and allowing the free movement of people and goods.

Ending that arrangement would mark a dramatic shift for a country whose largest trading partner is, in fact, the EU.

Supporters of the initiative say rapid immigration is driving up rents, putting pressure on public services and straining infrastructure.

On the other hand, critics, including members of Switzerland’s seven-seat Federal Council, warn the proposal risks damaging the economy and isolating the country from its European neighbours.

The debate may resonate with countries across the world, including the US, where immigration tensions have rapidly escalated since Donald Trump returned to power last January.

Immigration is a widely polarizing topic across the world - particularly in the US (Hinterhaus Productions/Getty Images)

The president renewed the crackdown on border crossings and the intensified Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations - resulting in the death of two US citizens, Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti, at the hands of agents in Minneapolis.

Like the US, Switzerland operates within a highly developed economy that relies on foreign labour in key sectors.

The outcome of the June vote could have wide-reaching consequences not just for migration policy, but for trade, employment and Switzerland’s broader relationship with its neighbours.

Thanks to Switzerland’s system of direct democracy, proposals that gather 100,000 signatures can be put to a nationwide vote.

Now, it will be up to Swiss voters to decide whether limiting the population is the answer to the pressures they say the country is facing.