Swiss voters have rejected plans for motorway expansion and eased eviction rules in a national referendum, opting instead for environmental priorities and tenant protections. They also approved a new healthcare financing model in a landmark decision.
Highway Expansion Rejected
A government proposal to allocate €5.3 million for expanding motorways and constructing new roads at six key locations, including near Bern and between Geneva and Lausanne, was defeated with 52.7% voting against it. The plan, endorsed by parliament last year, aimed to address a fivefold increase in traffic volume over the past 60 years, according to the federal government.
The result was a significant victory for environmental groups and the Green Party, who argued that wider roads would exacerbate traffic congestion and harm the environment. Instead, they advocated reallocating funds to public transport, active mobility initiatives, and the renovation of existing infrastructure.
Green Party representative Mattea Meyer celebrated the outcome, saying:
“I am incredibly pleased that a majority of the population does not want a highway expansion. This decision reflects a commitment to climate protection and a sustainable transport transition.”
Despite the setback, supporters of the highway expansion indicated plans to pursue the projects through agglomeration programs, bypassing national referendums.
Housing Proposals Rejected
Swiss voters also dismissed two controversial housing proposals.
- Easier Evictions: A proposal to allow landlords to terminate leases more easily for personal use was rejected by 53.8% of voters. Opposition was particularly strong in French-speaking cantons like Geneva, where 67.8% voted against the measure, citing the city’s housing crisis.
- Subletting Regulations: Another proposal to impose stricter rules on subletting residential and commercial properties was narrowly defeated, with 51.6% voting against it.
The decisions reflect Switzerland’s tenant-focused housing policies, with 60% of the population renting their homes—the highest rate in Europe. Advocacy groups emphasized the importance of tenant protections amid ongoing housing shortages.
Broader Implications
The referendum results highlight a growing emphasis on sustainability and tenant rights in Swiss policy. Environmental advocates view the rejection of motorway expansion as a win for climate-focused transportation reforms, while housing rights organizations welcomed the maintenance of protections for renters.
