FDP delegates reject Juso initiative: Danger to the economy?

FDP delegates reject Juso initiative: Danger to the economy?

The FDP delegates' meeting met on June 28, 2025, and right at the beginning Juso future initiative unanimously rejected. This initiative, which calls for a 50% tax on inheritances over 50 million francs, has caused quite a stir in politics. The income from this tax should be used to finance social climate protection measures, a concern that the Juso has been vehemently pursuing for a long time.

It was no secret that the mood within the FDP was clearly against the initiative. In her speech, the co-president of the Jungfreisinnen Solothurn, Melanie Racine, in particular, left no doubt about the negative consequences for Swiss companies and the investment climate. “There is something there,” she stated, warning against placing the financial burden on the shoulders of companies.

Cantonal property taxes in focus

Another central topic of the meeting was the controversial proposal for cantonal property taxes on second properties. Council of States Hans Wicki presented the reasons for abolishing the imputed rental value, as this would particularly disadvantage older people and young families. The vote on property taxes will take place on September 28th and could have far-reaching consequences. If the proposal is rejected, the imputed rental value remains, whereas if it is accepted, the cantons themselves can decide on the taxation of second homes.

The panel discussion revealed different opinions, especially among delegates from French-speaking Switzerland, who reject the proposal. In the vote, the bill received 214 votes in favor, 66 against and 22 abstentions. These results illustrate the divided view of the tax burden in the real estate sector.

FDP demands and the population

The FDP announced a staff freeze at the federal government and external service providers in order to counteract the challenges on the labor market. In a newly presented nine-point position paper, party leaders Beat Walti and Nadine Gobet are calling for concrete measures to prevent additional taxes and duties for citizens. From the FDP's point of view, the annual creation of 450 new federal jobs is unsustainable, especially given the shortage of skilled workers in the private sector.

In the context of the discussion about the inheritance tax initiative, the Federal Council highlighted the possible negative effects on Switzerland's attractiveness for wealthy newcomers on December 13, 2024. According to a survey by PwC It has been brought to light that wealthy people may consider moving to other countries if the initiative is adopted. This issue should not be underestimated because Switzerland could lose valuable immigration.

Politics is at a turning point and further developments surrounding the Juso initiative and property taxes will be kept in mind. The upcoming referendums could significantly change the direction of Swiss tax policy and shape discussions in the political landscape from Zurich to Geneva. However, one thing remains clear: the topic of taxation will continue to accompany us in the near future.