Exploring the Implementation of Compulsory National Service for Non-Citizen Residents in Switzerland
reshaping the landscape of defense
The Swiss government is contemplating strategies to beef up the ranks, both in the military and civilian defense force, as a response to present-day threats.
"It is essential to refine the conscription system," the Federal Council declared, with Defence Minister Viola Amherd indicating that the ministry is considering the inclusion of women in compulsory service, a proposal set to be presented by the close of 2027.
Besides women, the exploration also covers the participation of foreign nationals.
Interested in the nuances of citizenship and service? Read up on it here.
At present, all fit Swiss men from the age of 18 to 30 are obliged to serve in the armed forces or their civilian counterpart.
The Federal Council is mulling over the feasibility of incorporating foreigners into conscription, with a definitive decision to be made by 2027.
Speaking at a press conference, Amherd suggested that foreign residents could potentially contribute to the civilian service in the event of calamities.
"From our standpoint, it would be plausible for the foreign population to serve during disaster relief," she stated.
A few years back, the right-wing Swiss People's Party (SVP) proposed a "security tax" for foreign men residing in Switzerland, analogous to the military exemption tax paid by Swiss nationals deemed unfit for service.
The Swiss army, steered by a handful of professionals, commands conscripts for at least four months of service before recalls for 3-week training sessions over a 10-year period.
[Related Insights]While conscription for non-citizens is untouched, naturalized Swiss citizens may find themselves bound to military service. Despite being generally exempt, dual citizens who have served in another country's military might be exempted from Swiss conscription.
Switzerland's defense strategy revolves around operational readiness, neutrality, and multinational cooperation, but there are no proposals for conscription reforms for non-citizens as per available sources[4].
[^1^]: Switzerland’s conscription laws primarily affect male Swiss citizens, although this isn't explicitly detailed in the provided sources.[2][3][4]
- The Federal Council, in consideration of the Swiss army's strategy, is pondering whether to make conscription mandatory for female and foreign citizens, with a decision anticipated by 2027.
- Conscription applies to all fit Swiss male citizens aged 18 to 30, but a suggested change could see foreign residents contributing to civilian service during emergencies.
- The General News section has revealed that while non-citizens are exempt from conscription, naturalized Swiss citizens may find themselves obligated to military service, depending on their dual citizen status.
- Despite Switzerland's defense policy and legislation being open to the exploration of conscription for foreigners, no specific proposals for reform have emerged thus far.
