Supporters argued the citizen service would boost social cohesion and crisis preparedness, expanding roles in environmental prevention, food security, and elder care.

The broader aim of the citizen service was to broaden national security beyond military service, though critics warned it could disrupt labor markets and reduce efficiency in key sectors.

Campaigns around the initiatives sparked intense societal and environmental debates, signaling high public engagement despite the outcomes.

Switzerland rejected two referendums: a broad citizen service plan that would have mandatory service for everyone in military or civilian roles, and a climate inheritance tax targeting the wealthiest.

If enacted, the inheritance tax could have raised around 4 billion Swiss francs, but critics warned it might provoke capital flight and reduce overall tax revenues.

The citizen service was pitched as a step toward true gender equality and broader women’s participation in national protection, with service options spanning military, disaster relief, education, health, and social sectors.

Others emphasized national service as a way to strengthen crisis readiness against risks like natural disasters, cyberattacks, and energy shortages.

SRG projections after polling stations closed provided the basis for early results, with promotional content from the publisher noted as related material.

Debate highlighted deep questions about women’s roles in society and gender equality amid broader geopolitical security concerns.

Post-vote commentary included Juso leader Mirjam Hostetmann acknowledging campaign imbalances and resignation about the outcome, while pledging to keep pursuing reform ideas.

Voting stations opened in the morning and were scheduled to close by midday, with most ballots already submitted ahead of time.

Voter turnout was expected to be modest with many ballots cast in advance; first results were anticipated in the afternoon.