Most Swiss for neutrality and against EU membership

An annual survey on security by ETH in Zurich reveals widespread support Switzerland’s neutrality.

Since 2015, support for the principle of neutrality has remained constant at 95%. 85% feel neutrality is inseparable from the Swiss concept of the state and 60% think Switzerland’s armed neutrality contributes to security and stability in Europe.

In addition, 94% think Switzerland can play a positive role in conflict resolution and international mediation because of its neutral status.

And while 59% support Switzerland’s active involvement in the UN, only 19% are in favour of Switzerland joining NATO.

45% think Switzerland should rely solely on its own national defense and 81% see its armed forces as necessary. 43% think the nation’s military plays a central role in Swiss life, 44% see it as a necessary evil, and 12% think it should be abolished. Support for the Swiss military is found across all age groups. 79% of 18-29 year olds, the age of conscription, see it as necessary. 77% of those aged 30-59 do also and 89% of those 60 and older do too.

The demand for economic and political autonomy among Swiss remains high (77%). 36% think neutrality is an obstacle to economic cooperation with other European states but only 18% think Switzerland should abandon it.

Skepticism towards the EU continues. Only 16% favour Switzerland becoming an EU member. 81% think Switzerland should strengthen economic relations with the block but not join it.

The survey questioned 1,209 Swiss in January 2018.

More on this:
Federal government press release (in French) - Take a 5 minute French test now
Security 2018 (in German)

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