Vaud’s mixed verdict on political rights
In the Swiss canton of Vaud, Sunday brought two contrasting votes on political rights. Turnout hovered around 46 percent for both questions. The first proposal to shorten the residency delay that lets foreigners vote and stand for local office was rejected by 54.15 percent of voters.
The second proposal to modify the way the electoral quorum is calculated was approved by 47.43 percent, with a notable share of ballots cast as blanks, totaling 10.01 percent. The high rate of white ballots helps explain why the measure could pass despite not reaching a majority of valid votes.
The communal voting rights proposal
The plan would have shortened the residency requirement for non Swiss residents to participate in municipal elections and to be eligible for municipal office. Under current rules, a person must have resided in Switzerland for at least ten years and in the canton for three years. The proposed change aimed to reduce national residency to five years and keep three years in the canton. The outcome preserves the status quo at the communal level for now, while a separate cantonal vote on similar questions is scheduled for November 30.
How the new quorum works
Under the reform, related lists can combine their votes to clear the 5 percent quorum threshold for seat distribution. Previously, each list had to meet this threshold on its own to be included in the distribution of seats in the parliament. The change, set to apply to the March 8 municipal elections, could favour smaller centrist and leftist formations by broadening the pathway to representation.
City-by-city results and notable trends
City outcomes varied: Lausanne supported the quorum change with about 60 percent approval, while Montreux, Aigle and Payerne opposed it. The small town of Mauraz, with only 40 registered voters, recorded the highest consent rate at 61.9 percent (thirteen yes, seven no, one blank).
Looking ahead
Although the quorum reform moved forward, debates about foreign participation in local politics continue. A related cantonal question will be decided on November 30, when Vaud voters will be asked to consider extending or shortening residency requirements for cantonal level voting and eligibility.
Context and implications
The Vaud votes mirror a broader discussion about political participation and how votes translate into representation. Proponents argue the new quorum method improves representation for smaller parties, particularly in the center and among the radical left, while opponents worry about strategic voting and potential dilution of electoral accountability.
