'Initiative for a Future' Referendum 30 November 2025 - Rachele Betschart from JUSO

About the 'Initiative for a Future' Fedral-level referendum to be held on 30 November 2025 

Switzerland is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050 – a goal approved by the electorate. To support this, the federal government currently allocates around CHF 2 billion annually to climate-related measures. These funds are primarily raised through consumption-based taxes on thermal and motor fuels.

To understand this referendum even further, Neighbouhood News spoke with Rachele Betschart, Co-Vice-President. JUSO (Young Socialists).

We delve into her personal-politics, politics of the party, about the initiative itself, and discusss both the scenarios - what if it is a yes or a no. Rachele speaks about what would be the plan B, and why, we should schedule an interview with her in ten years again.

The initiative proposes increasing funding for climate policy by introducing a federal inheritance and gift tax. While such taxes have so far only been levied by cantons and communes, the proposal would add a federal tax of 50% on estates and gifts, with the first CHF 50 million exempt. Two-thirds of the revenue would go to the federal government and one-third to the cantons. According to the initiative text, the revenue from the new estate and gift tax must be used “to combat the climate crisis in a socially just manner and to restructure the economy as a whole as necessary to achieve this goal”.

Recommendation of the Federal Council and Parliament - NO

For the Federal Council and Parliament, the initiative is the wrong way to achieve Switzerland's climate goals. In addition, the implementation of the initiative could encourage wealthy individuals and companies to leave Switzerland. This could jeopardise jobs and lead to lower tax revenues than today.

Initiative Committee Recommendation - YES

For the initiative committee, today's climate policy does not go far enough. More resources are needed to combat the climate crisis. Anyone who jeopardises the natural livelihoods for their profits should be responsible for this. A future tax of 50 percent on inheritances and donations of CHF 50 million is socially just.

About Neighbourhood News:

Neighbourhood News is a weekly, English-language, digital newsletter that delivers daily news from Basel, Switzerland. It covers a wide range of topics, including politics, arts, culture, mobility, health, travel, and more. The newsletter aims to provide readers with news that impacts their daily lives.

Beyond news delivery, Neighbourhood News also functions as a news network and content creation media house. It collaborates with local publications, print neighbourhood newspapers and magazines, and websites to bring its readers verified and authentic news. The newsletter is designed to be quick and easy to read, allowing readers to catch up on the week that was and plan for the week ahead. Every Thursday at 10 a.m., Neighbourhood News is delivered straight to your inbox, providing you with the news you need to stay informed and make informed decisions for the week ahead.

Neighbourhood News's mission is to eliminate language barriers and facilitate connections between readers as human beings, coexisting in the beautiful city of Basel. It aspires to be a bridge between so many beautiful islands that exist in Basel, bringing people, cultures, and stories closer than before. Stay updated with more conversations from in and around Switzerland.

Subscribe to Neighbourhood News