1918 Swiss referendums

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]

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

Choice	Popular vote		Cantons
	Votes	%	Full	Half	Total
For	276,735	45.9	6	3	7.5
Against	325,814	54.1	13	3	14.5
Blank votes	4,332	–	–	–	–
Invalid votes	5,290	–	–	–	–
Total	612,171	100	19	6	22
Registered voters/turnout	936,096	65.4	–	–	–
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

Proportional representation

Choice	Popular vote		Cantons
	Votes	%	Full	Half	Total
For	299,550	66.8	17	5	19.5
Against	149,035	33.2	2	1	2.5
Blank votes	8,892	–	–	–	–
Invalid votes	5,825	–	–	–	–
Total	463,304	100	19	6	22
Registered voters/turnout	936,336	49.5	–	–	–
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

References

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