1918 Swiss referendums

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Two referendums were held in Switzerland during 1918. [1] The first was held on 2 June on introducing a direct federal tax, and was rejected by a majority of voters and cantons. [1] The second was held on 13 October 1918 on introducing proportional representation for National Council elections, and was approved by a majority of voters and cantons. [1] As a result, proportional representation was introduced in the 1919 elections. [2]

Contents

Background

Both referendums were popular initiatives, [1] which required a double majority; a majority of the popular vote and majority of the cantons. [3] The decision of each canton was based on the vote in that canton. [3] Full cantons counted as one vote, whilst half cantons counted as half. [3]

Results

Federal tax

ChoicePopular voteCantons
Votes%FullHalfTotal
For276,73545.9637.5
Against325,81454.113314.5
Blank votes4,332
Invalid votes5,290
Total612,17110019622
Registered voters/turnout936,09665.4
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

Proportional representation

ChoicePopular voteCantons
Votes%FullHalfTotal
For299,55066.817519.5
Against149,03533.2212.5
Blank votes8,892
Invalid votes5,825
Total463,30410019622
Registered voters/turnout936,33649.5
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

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References

  1. 1 2 3 4 Nohlen, D & Stöver, P (2010) Elections in Europe: A data handbook, p1907 ISBN   9783832956097
  2. Nohlen & Stöver, p1886
  3. 1 2 3 Nohlen & Stöver, p1891