During their meeting on October 11, 2025, in Zurich, the VPOD Migration Commission reviewed the outcomes of the SGB Migration Conference 'Solidarity and Participation.' The focus was on analyzing the latest right-wing populist initiative by the SVP.
The so-called 'No 10 Million Switzerland' initiative, which will be voted on in 2026, aims to introduce an upper limit beyond which no one could immigrate to Switzerland. A more fitting name, however, would be 'Distraction Initiative,' as it is meant to divert the populace from the real problems and solutions, scapegoating a certain group for all societal ills.
SVP's Treacherous Deception
In reality, if the 'Distraction Initiative' were accepted, it would not lead to less immigration, as residence permits for durations of up to 12 months would be exempt from the limit. Since the demand for workers and skilled professionals is unlikely to diminish, the population would probably continue to grow. This would happen, however, with people unable to claim any rights regarding residency or social insurance.
This is the SVP's true agenda: to dismantle social rights. Migrants are merely the first to be affected. The creation of largely rightless workers exerts great pressure on the working conditions and wages of all employees, with the subsequent fall of bilateral agreements with the EU further deregulating the labor market and dismantling protective and control mechanisms. Existing problems, such as low wages and precarious working conditions, would thus be exacerbated by this SVP initiative.
Importance of Union Engagement
This dangerous SVP initiative must be stopped, and the voting campaign won. This requires the engagement of unions. However, they must also demand solutions for the real issues people face.
Higher wages, better working conditions, and an expansion of public services towards a better health and education system, an ecological and social transport transition. The VPOD Migration Commission will continue to advocate for these goals—both within the union and beyond.
Media Contact:
Head of Legal Advice
johannes.gruber@vpod-ssp.ch