In a pivotal referendum held in Switzerland, voters are deciding whether to implement a national service requirement for women, making it equal to that of men in military, civil protection, and other forms of service. This initiative, known as the "citizen service initiative," is aimed at fostering social cohesion by increasing available jobs in sectors such as environmental prevention, food security, and elderly care.
Supporters of the initiative argue that expanding national service to include women will enhance social responsibility and contribute to a more robust Switzerland capable of dealing with various crises. They assert that the initiative is a timely response to a range of growing threats, including environmental disasters, cyberattacks, potential energy shortages, and the geopolitical instability surrounding Russia's war in Ukraine. The campaigners have expressed concerns about increasing individualism and social tensions, emphasizing that national service can help build a stronger, more united society.
However, the Swiss parliament is overwhelmingly opposed to the initiative, primarily due to its potential economic implications. Lawmakers fear that mandating national service could significantly reduce the workforce availability by pulling tens of thousands of young people out of their jobs, leading to potential economic strain. They argue that the current military and civil defense forces already have sufficient personnel and that additional recruitment may not be necessary.
The government further contends that while including women in mandatory service might appear to promote gender equality, it could inadvertently place an additional burden on them. Women in Switzerland already engage in a substantial amount of unpaid work related to childcare, eldercare, and household duties. The government argues that this initiative does not represent a true advancement in equality, given the existing disparities in the workplace and society.
Currently, Swiss men are obligated to complete military service or join civil protection teams, with options available for conscientious objectors to engage in alternative forms of service. Those who opt-out entirely are required to pay an exemption fee. If approved, the new measure would require all Swiss citizens, including women—who presently can participate on a voluntary basis—to fulfill this national duty, which would also expand the definition of national service beyond military and civil protection responsibilities.
Annually, approximately 35,000 men in Switzerland fulfill their mandatory service, which incurs almost 1 billion Swiss francs (approximately $1.25 billion) in government costs and insurance. Should the referendum pass, it is expected to double both the headcount and the financial burden associated with national service. Additionally, the proposed initiative would grant parliament the authority to compel foreign residents in Switzerland to partake in public service as well.
As the referendum unfolds, it reflects broader European sentiments regarding mandatory national service, especially in the context of rising global tensions. The outcome will likely provide insights into how contemporary Swiss society perceives responsibility and duty amid an increasingly uncertain global landscape.
