According to IMI, the initiative envisages a phased introduction of measures when certain demographic indicators are reached. Thus, if the population reaches 9.5 million people, the government will limit the admission of refugees and tighten the rules for family reunification of foreigners. If the figures reach 10 million people, Switzerland will withdraw from international agreements promoting migration.
Wealthy Swiss also fall under the law
High-income people living in Switzerland on a lump-sum (lump-sum) tax basis are also covered by the initiative. There are major risks for this category too. First, it is naturalization: restrictions may complicate the process of obtaining citizenship for those who have lived in the country for less than 10 years. Secondly, there is supposed to be a lack of benefits. Formally, the law does not provide for exceptions for large taxpayers. In addition, if the measures are implemented, the authorities will restrict the entry of asylum seekers and temporary workers in an effort to retain residents who generate significant income.
Big business – against
Large businesses and the Swiss government are opposed to the initiative, arguing the following factors:
Staff shortages: Companies (such as Nestlé and Roche) depend on skilled professionals from the EU. Ending free movement could lead to the relocation of head offices outside the country.
Pension system: Foreign workers contribute significantly to social security. Reducing their number would put a strain on the pension fund.
Trade relations: Withdrawal from agreements with the EU could derail current negotiations on access to the single market, which accounts for more than 40% of Swiss exports.
Switzerland now has a population of 9.1 million. Opinion is divided, as polls show: 48% of citizens support the restriction, 41% oppose it. To pass the initiative requires a “double majority”: the consent of the majority of voters and the majority of cantons.
