Switzerland national referendum – level 1

Switzerland national referendum

04-12-2025 07:00

Switzerland has a referendum. People say no to two big new ideas.

First, they reject the plan to make national service for women. Now, only young men must do military or civilian service. The plan fails because many people worry about extra costs. Also, women already do a lot of work without money.

Second, the country votes against a new tax for the very rich. This tax would be on gifts and things which rich people get after somebody dies. The plan does not work. Many leaders worry that the tax would make rich people and their money leave Switzerland.

Difficult words: reject (to say no to an idea or plan), national service (a formal system where young people must spend some time working in the army), tax (money you pay to the government).

You can watch the original video in the Level 3 section.

What concerns led voters to reject the proposal to make national service compulsory for women?

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