Collecting signatures for the army: not an easy task. This is shown by a petition that has been running since spring. So far, only 15,000 signatures have been collected, despite military societies supporting it.
### The Initiative for a Strong Army 2030
A “reasonable voice from the population” is what the “Citizens’ Initiative for a Strong Army 2030” aims to be. However, the initiative currently only has 15,000 supporters, falling short of its potential. The circle of potential army supporters is large, with the Swiss Officers’ Society (SOG) having 20,000 members, and the Association of Military Societies (VMG) with 34 societies and around 100,000 members.
#### The Brainchild of FDP-Nationalrat Heinz Theiler
The initiative was launched by FDP-Nationalrat Heinz Theiler from Schwyz, who has been a member of the Security Policy Commission for a year. With a military background as a Gefreiter, he believes that security is a state responsibility and that every citizen has the right to be protected, which requires a capable defense force.
#### Pushback Against Delayed Armee Budget Increase
Theiler criticizes the Federal Council’s decision to delay increasing the army budget to 1% of the GDP until 2035, considering it a security risk. However, the parliament narrowly approved this plan last December.
### Social Issues Take Priority
According to Theiler, the limited budget and lack of coverage in national media are the main reasons for the low number of signatures. It is also challenging to reach individual members of the military societies.
#### Lack of Awareness and Prioritization
SOG President Dominik Knill notes that people have other priorities, with social issues like healthcare costs and retirement planning taking precedence. He points to the success of a recent FDP petition, contrasting its rapid support to the slow progress of the army initiative.
#### Appeal for Commitment to Military Security
Knill emphasizes the need for a stronger commitment to military security, highlighting the credibility at stake with only 15,000 signatures after eight months.
### Parliament Increases Payment Framework
During the autumn session, parliament increased the army’s payment framework by an additional four billion Swiss francs to address gaps in air defense, a move opposed by the Federal Council due to budget constraints.
#### Funding Debate Continues
The source of funding for this increase remains uncertain, with discussions on possible solutions including funds, a VAT increase, or cuts in other areas, with no consensus reached so far.
### Conclusion
Heinz Theiler plans to continue collecting signatures, recognizing the growing concerns among citizens regarding the geopolitical situation and the need for a strong defense force. The outcome of the budget debate in December will determine the actual funding for the army, regardless of the agreed payment framework.
#### Expert Insights
Stefan Holenstein, President of VMG, highlights the importance of higher armee finances, supported by the majority in parliament, and emphasizes the need for greater awareness and support for the cause.
### FAQ
– What is the current status of the Citizens’ Initiative for a Strong Army 2030?
– How did parliament respond to the call for increased armee funding?
– What are the main challenges in collecting signatures for the army petition?
– What are the potential funding sources for the increased armee budget?