Swiss voters narrowly approved a plan to introduce digital identity cards, with 50.4% voting in favor and 49.6% against. The initiative allows citizens to opt for digital IDs voluntarily.
The referendum’s outcome surprised many, as opinion polls had predicted up to 60% support for the proposal, which was backed by the Swiss government and both parliamentary chambers. This marked Switzerland’s second vote on digital ID systems. A previous attempt in 2021 was rejected over concerns about centralized data control by private entities.
The revised plan maintains government oversight, with data stored exclusively on users’ smartphones. Citizens can continue using traditional national identity cards, a practice standard for decades in Switzerland. Authorities will only be permitted to verify specific details, such as age or nationality, when requested.
The vote coincides with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s push to mandate digital IDs for work eligibility. Starmer stated that digital ID would become compulsory by the end of this parliamentary session, declaring it a requirement for employment in the United Kingdom.
Journalist Michael Shellenberger raised concerns about the initiative, linking it to broader “digital ID/censorship emergencies” across nations like Australia and the UK. He highlighted the role of tech companies such as Palantir and Mercator in promoting the Swiss proposal.
Political scientist Lukas Golder noted growing public skepticism toward state solutions since the pandemic, particularly in conservative regions. Olga Baranova of the CH association emphasized the need for clearer communication about digital technology’s challenges to avoid Switzerland falling behind.
Opponents, including referendum committee member Jonas Sulzer, pointed to a disconnect between parliamentary support and public sentiment, citing insufficient guarantees in the law.
