US EditionSwitzerland votes on electronic identity cards for second time
Swiss voters approved a state-run, voluntary electronic ID system by 50.4%, addressing privacy concerns that led to a 2021 rejection, with data stored only on users’ smartphones.
- On September 28, 2025, Swiss voters narrowly approved a referendum to introduce electronic identity cards nationwide as a smartphone app.
- This vote followed a 2021 rejection amid privacy concerns and fears private companies would manage sensitive data, which the new federal law changed.
- The new system stores data on users’ smartphones, is managed solely by the federal government, remains optional, and requires a face scan for issuance.
- A 50.39 percent majority supported the e-ID, which will allow secure access to government services, age verification, and online transactions as a digital ID app.
- The narrow result sustains debate as opponents warn of surveillance risks while supporters argue it simplifies bureaucracy and enforces strict data minimisation.
48 Articles
48 Articles
Switzerland Charts Its Own Path on Digital IDs, Sparking European Privacy Debate
In a razor-thin vote, Switzerland has broken rank with its European neighbors by approving a uniquely privacy-focused digital ID system that stands in stark contrast to controversial initiatives underway in the European Union and the UK. Just 50.4% of Swiss voters backed the new Federal Act on Electronic Identification Services in a national referendum—the second […]
Signs of the Times
Swiss voters narrowly approve plan for electronic ID cards
Swiss voters have narrowly approved a plan to introduce voluntary electronic identity cards. With all votes counted, 50.4% of those who voted said yes to the proposal, while 49.6% rejected it. The closeness of the ballot is a surprise. Opinion polls had suggested up to 60% backed digital IDs, which also had the approval of the Swiss government, and both houses of parliament. It was Switzerland's second vote on digital IDs. An earlier proposal wa…
NEW – Switzerland approves digital ID with 50.4% voting yes, an earlier proposal was rejected in 2021. The digital ID will be “optional.”
NEW – Switzerland approves digital ID with 50.4% voting yes, an earlier proposal was rejected in 2021. The digital ID will be "optional."https://t.co/2lILFMaEEJ — Disclose.tv (@disclosetv) September 28, 2025
As late as 2021, the Swiss had clearly rejected the introduction of an electronic ID (E-ID) in a referendum. Yesterday, however, they voted very little for it. The long-term propaganda achieved its desired effect. In fact, Switzerland is regarded as a model for how citizens can also be given the opportunity to give the last word on political issues. But now one wonders whether the federal policy does not simply abuse the direct democratic system…
Swiss Voters Narrowly Back Electronic ID Cards
Swiss voters narrowly approved the introduction of voluntary electronic identity cards in a Sept. 28 referendum, the country’s second national vote on digital IDs. The Federal Act on Electronic Identification Services (e-ID Act) passed with 50.4 percent support and 49.6 percent opposed, according to official results. Turnout was 49.5 percent. It marked a reversal from March 2021, when voters rejected an earlier version of the law amid concerns t…
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 70% of the sources lean Right
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
