Switzerland has stayed out of Europe’s major wars for over 200 years. Now, Swiss citizens are voting on whether to add new, strict neutrality laws to their constitution. These rules would stop Switzerland from joining military alliances like NATO unless Switzerland is attacked.

Supporters of the new laws say it would return Switzerland to its old neutral tradition, which has protected the country since 1815. The idea came because some people believe Switzerland is losing its neutral status, especially after following European Union sanctions against Russia after the war in Ukraine began.

If the proposal is accepted, Switzerland could not join or work with military groups except for self-defence. The government could only use economic sanctions if the United Nations agrees. Recent polls show most people do not support these stricter rules, so it is likely the proposal will not become law.