(MENAFN- Swissinfo) On November 30, Swiss voters will decide whether to approve an initiative to replace compulsory military service with“citizen service” for the benefit of the community and the environment, which would be extended to women. Its supporters see this as a modern reform, while opponents fear it would deplete the army. This content was published on October 14, 2025 - 09:00 6 minutes

As a correspondent at the Federal Palace for SWI swissinfo, I report on federal politics for the Swiss Abroad. After studying at the Academy of Journalism and Media at the University of Neuchâtel, my career path initially took me to various regional media, working in the editorial offices of Journal du Jura, Canal 3 and Radio Jura bernois. Since 2015, I have been working in the multilingual editorial department of SWI swissinfo, where I continue to practise my profession with passion.

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Switzerland is preparing for a nationwide debate on the value and future of compulsory national service. The citizen service initiative “For a committed Switzerland”External link proposes a radical reform of military service. Swiss citizens will have their say on November 30.

What does the initiative call for?

The text calls for all Swiss nationals to perform service for the benefit of the community and the environment. Unlike the current system, this obligation would apply to women as well as men. The initiative also provides for parliament to extend it to non-Swiss nationals.

Currently, compulsory service is limited to the army, civil defence and civilian service. Those behind the initiative want it opened to other forms of contribution to society.

This“citizen service” could be carried out in a range of areas. The initiative committee cites various examples: environmental protection, assistance to vulnerable people, food security and disaster prevention. It would be up to the authorities to define specific tasks, depending on the country's needs.

More Debate Hosted by: Katy Romy What do you think about introducing civic service for everyone to replace military service?

What do you think about introducing civic service for all?

Join the discussi Oct 14, 2025 6 Likes 7 Comments View the discussi

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