Amendment to the War Materiel Act
On 29 November 2026, Swiss citizens will vote on the amendment to the War Materiel Act.
The topic in brief
The War Materiel Act lays down the conditions by which weapons, weapon systems and weapon components may be exported. For example, an export licence will not be granted if the country of destination is involved in an armed conflict or is violating human rights. An export is also prohibited if there is a risk that the materiel will be used against the civilian population or passed on without authorisation.
Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has significantly worsened the security situation in Europe. To enable the Federal Council to respond appropriately to the new challenges, Parliament has decided to amend the conditions governing the export of war materiel. It will become possible for war materiel to be supplied to a partner state involved in an armed conflict provided this is compatible with Switzerland’s neutrality and its foreign and security policy interests. In addition, the Federal Council may now choose not to follow the authorisation criteria if exceptional circumstances apply and this is necessary to safeguard Switzerland’s interests. Furthermore, countries that purchase Swiss war materiel will no longer be required in every case to give an assurance that they will only pass it on to other countries with Switzerland’s consent. Authorisation must continue to be consistent with the law on neutrality, human rights and other international obligations. A referendum was called against these amendments, with the result that the bill is being put to a popular vote.
Federal Council explanations
On the German, French, Italian and Romansh pages, the official explanations of the Federal Council are available in PDF format.
