AI-translated. Some sections may contain inaccuracies.
At a glance
- A recent representative survey shows that a clear majority of the population supports the bilateral agreements.
- 59 percent of respondents support stabilizing and further developing relations through the Bilateral Agreements III.
- With regard to immigration, stricter enforcement of asylum law and better utilization of the domestic labor force are needed.
On yesterday's referendum Sunday, Swiss voters clearly rejected the 10-million-franc initiative. This removes a key source of uncertainty in European policy. The way is now clear for Bilateral Agreements III.
A recent representative survey of the voting public (conducted June 5 – June 12) shows: Yesterday’s referendum result is no coincidence, but can also be explained by the broad support for the bilateral approach. About two-thirds of those surveyed view the bilateral approach with the EU positively overall. This support also extends to individual key elements of the cooperation, particularly the free movement of persons, which is likewise backed by a clear majority.
“How would you rate Switzerland’s current bilateral agreements with the EU overall?”
Source: Sotomo, June 2026
Majority Wants Stabilization and Further Development of the Bilateral Agreements
A clear majority of 59 percent also supports stabilizing and further developing the bilateral approach through the Bilateral Agreements III. Two-thirds also favor continuing the parliamentary deliberations on this matter in a consistent manner.
“Do you support Switzerland’s current Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons with the EU?” / “Do you support the Schengen Agreement, to which Switzerland is a party?” / “Do you support the Dublin Agreement, to which Switzerland is a party?” / “The Federal Council has negotiated a package of new agreements with the EU (sometimes referred to as ‘Bilateral Agreements III’). The package includes various elements to stabilize existing agreements as well as new agreements. Do you support Switzerland’s new package of agreements with the EU?”
Source: Sotomo, June 2026
Overall, the survey suggests that the public does not want a fundamental shift in European policy. Rather, what is called for is continuity, reliability, and a pragmatic further development of relations with the EU.
Measures in asylum policy are absolutely essential
At the same time, it is clear that the public is well aware of the challenges surrounding immigration—though with a focus that is distinctly different from what the initiative proposes. According to the survey, the priorities lie primarily with domestic policy measures: stricter enforcement in the area of asylum, particularly regarding deportations and restrictions, as well as better utilization of the domestic labor force.
Overall, the survey paints a consistent picture: the Swiss electorate clearly supports bilateral relations with the EU and backs their further development. At the same time, they expect political solutions to immigration to be found primarily within the country—pragmatic, nuanced, and without calling into question the proven bilateral approach.
Political Dossier
Relevant articles
Subscribe to Newsletter
Sign up for our newsletter here. By registering, you will receive all current information about economic policy and the activities of our association starting next week.