Swiss voters have narrowly approved a government-backed electronic identity scheme in a nationwide referendum. Preliminary official results released Sunday indicate a margin of 50.39% in favor of the proposal, compared to 49.61% against. Voter turnout for the referendum reached 49.55%.
The legislation aims to establish the legal framework for a state-controlled digital identity system. This system would allow citizens to electronically verify their identity with government agencies and businesses, facilitating tasks such as form requests and age verification.
The proposal represents a revised approach following a previous attempt to introduce an electronic identity four years ago, which failed at the ballot box. Concerns then centered around the potential for private companies to handle sensitive user data. This time, voters were presented with a voluntary and free-of-charge e-ID managed entirely by the state. The approval signals a shift towards greater digital accessibility and government-led technological solutions within the country.