Guardian

Swiss voters back electronic identity cards in close vote

Swiss voters approved electronic identity cards in a referendum on September 28, 2025, with 50.4% supporting the measure and 49.6% opposing it, marking the second nationwide vote on this issue after rejecting an earlier version in 2021.</span

The Times

Swiss voters approved electronic identity cards in a referendum on September 28, 2025, with 50.4% supporting the measure and 49.6% opposing it, marking the second nationwide vote on this issue after rejecting an earlier version in 2021.

The narrow victory surprised pollsters who had predicted stronger support for the electronic ID proposal, with only 7.5 out of 26 cantons voting in favor while the remaining 15.5 cantons opposed the measure.</span

Le News

The narrow victory surprised pollsters who had predicted stronger support for the electronic ID proposal, with only 7.5 out of 26 cantons voting in favor while the remaining 15.5 cantons opposed the measure.

Under the approved legislation, the Swiss federal government will issue and operate the electronic ID system, addressing previous concerns about private company involvement that led to the 2021 rejection of a similar proposal.</span

BBC News

Admin

Under the approved legislation, the Swiss federal government will issue and operate the electronic ID system, addressing previous concerns about private company involvement that led to the 2021 rejection of a similar proposal.

The electronic ID will be stored on individual smartphones rather than central servers and will remain optional and free of charge, allowing users to prove identity online and access government services or verify age for purchases.</span

The Local Switzerland

Saudigazette

The electronic ID will be stored on individual smartphones rather than central servers and will remain optional and free of charge, allowing users to prove identity online and access government services or verify age for purchases.

Critics raised concerns about data protection and potential mass surveillance, fearing the voluntary system could become mandatory and disadvantage people without smartphones, while supporters argued it would boost Switzerland's economy.</span

SWI swissinfo.ch

Critics raised concerns about data protection and potential mass surveillance, fearing the voluntary system could become mandatory and disadvantage people without smartphones, while supporters argued it would boost Switzerland's economy.

Federal Councillor Beat Jans expressed relief at the outcome, stating the decision strengthens digital sovereignty and barrier-free access for citizens, while political scientist Lukas Golder noted growing mistrust of state solutions.</span

Blue News

Federal Councillor Beat Jans expressed relief at the outcome, stating the decision strengthens digital sovereignty and barrier-free access for citizens, while political scientist Lukas Golder noted growing mistrust of state solutions.

Switzerland Narrowly Approves Electronic ID Cards by 50.4%

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Switzerland Narrowly Approves Electronic ID Cards by 50.4%

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