In a pivotal referendum, Swiss voters have firmly rejected proposals for motorway expansion and changes to housing laws, signaling widespread support for environmental sustainability and tenant rights. The government’s plan to allocate €5.3 million for expanding motorways and constructing new roads at six critical locations, including areas near Bern and between Geneva and Lausanne, was defeated with 52.7% voting against it. Critics, led by the Green Party and environmental groups, argued that wider roads would exacerbate traffic issues and harm the environment. Instead, they advocated for investing in public transport, active mobility, and renovating existing infrastructure to support a climate-friendly transition.
Mattea Meyer, a prominent voice in the opposition, celebrated the result. “The population has clearly chosen climate protection and a sustainable transport policy over outdated solutions like highway expansions,” she stated. The Greens and their allies are now pushing for the rejected funds to be redirected toward eco-friendly alternatives.
On housing issues, Swiss voters also dismissed proposals that would have made it easier for landlords to terminate leases early to repurpose properties and introduced stricter regulations on subletting. These measures were rejected by 53.8% and 51.6% of voters, respectively. The proposals faced strong opposition in regions like Geneva, where a housing shortage has already put tenants under pressure, with 67.8% of voters in the canton opposing the eviction changes.
Tenant rights advocates welcomed the results as a win for social equity. With approximately 60% of the Swiss population living in rental properties—the highest rate in Europe—the referendum outcomes underscore the importance of protecting tenants amid ongoing housing challenges.
The referendum results highlight the Swiss population’s commitment to balancing economic development with environmental sustainability and social justice, setting the tone for future policy debates.