1942 Swiss referendums

Two referendums were held in Switzerland during 1942.[1] The first was held on 25 January on a popular initiative that would provide for the direct election of the Federal Council, as well as increasing the number of members.[2] It was rejected by voters.[1] The second was held on 3 May on a popular initiative "for the reorganisation of the National Council", and was also rejected.[1]

Background

The referendums were both 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

January referendum

ChoicePopular voteCantons
Votes%FullHalfTotal
For251,60532.4000
Against524,12767.619622
Blank votes13,381
Invalid votes3,311
Total792,42410019622
Registered voters/turnout1,278,68862.0
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

May referendum

ChoicePopular voteCantons
Votes%FullHalfTotal
For219,62934.9010.5
Against408,82165.119521.5
Blank votes30,543
Invalid votes1,825
Total660,81810019622
Registered voters/turnout1,283,48751.5
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

References