Story perspectives

Vaud Coalition Pushes Vote for Foreign Voting Rights

10/16/2025

Summary

Story summary

A Vaud coalition seeks November 30 vote to extend cantonal voting and candidacy rights to foreign nationals living in Vaud for at least three years and in Switzerland for ten years.
The coalition has gathered more than 15,000 signatures, despite a previous rejection of a similar proposal.
The Grand Council and Vaud Council of State oppose the initiative.
Support comes from several left-wing parties, while over a third of Vaud residents lack Swiss nationality.

History

Historical Context

In 1970, Switzerland reformed its citizenship laws, allowing foreign residents to apply for citizenship after twelve years, reflecting the increasing immigrant population. Today, noncitizens comprise 26% of the Swiss population, with ongoing debates about their voting rights echoing historical struggles for inclusion. The current coalition's push for these rights could reshape the political landscape and the relationship between Swiss nationals and foreign residents.

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Story summary

A Vaud coalition seeks November 30 vote to extend cantonal voting and candidacy rights to foreign nationals living in Vaud for at least three years and in Switzerland for ten years.
The coalition has gathered more than 15,000 signatures, despite a previous rejection of a similar proposal.
The Grand Council and Vaud Council of State oppose the initiative.
Support comes from several left-wing parties, while over a third of Vaud residents lack Swiss nationality.

1 / 2