Switzerland has rejected a proposal backed by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party to cap the country’s population at 10 million, with nearly 55% voting against it.

Opponents argued that the measure could jeopardize Switzerland’s free movement agreement with the European Union, threatening access to the EU market and worsening labor shortages in key sectors such as healthcare, tourism, and care services.

Supporters claimed a population cap would ease pressure on housing, transportation, public services, and the environment, but these arguments failed to convince enough voters.

The result was welcomed by the Swiss government, business leaders, and European officials as a sign that Switzerland wants to maintain close ties with Europe, the BBC has reported.

While concerns about rising rents, crowded infrastructure, and healthcare costs remain, many voters appeared unconvinced that stricter immigration controls would solve those problems.