The vote is expected to have profound impacts on the economy and relations between Bern and the European Union (EU).
The constitutional amendment proposal promoted by the Swiss People's Party (SVP) stems from concerns about immigration, pressure on public services and housing. According to official forecasts, Switzerland's population could reach 10 million people by the early 2040s.
If approved, when the population reaches the threshold of 10 million people, Switzerland will activate the process that could lead to the termination of the free movement of labor agreement with the EU. This is an important labor supply for this country.
Voting results are expected to be announced from around midday. Polls show public opinion is divided. A recent survey recorded an increasing trend of opposition to the proposal, while a previous survey showed the possibility of adoption.
Mr. Patrick Leisibach - a migration expert at the research organization Avenir Suisse - said that overload is causing many people to worry that public infrastructure is being pushed to the limit. According to him, not only right-wing voters but also more and more left-wing people are clearly feeling this pressure.
According to Switzerland's direct democracy system, national referendums are usually held 4 times a year and need to receive the support of the majority of states to be passed.
The Swiss government and Parliament have called on voters to reject this initiative, saying it is an inappropriate step in the context of an export-oriented economy facing many challenges. Imposing population limits can also complicate businesses' operating plans.
The agreement that Switzerland has just reached with Europe to strengthen economic integration with the EU may also be questioned if the proposal is approved, because freedom of movement is one of the foundations of the common European market.
