Geneva budget corsets rejected by voters
In the Swiss canton of Geneva, two proposed budget-restraining measures—described by supporters as corsets on spending—failed to win broad approval. The first mechanism would have barred the creation of any new permanent state positions, with teachers as the only exception. Early results indicated the measure drew 53.24% against it.
The second mechanism aimed to ensure that the growth of non-salary charges could not outpace population growth. While exemptions were allowed, they would require a two-thirds majority vote in the Grand Conseil (Geneva’s cantonal parliament) to become part of the budget framework.
The two mechanisms in detail
Ban on new permanent state posts (except teachers)
The proposed rule would have tightened the state’s payroll by blocking the creation of new permanent government posts unless explicitly exempted. Supporters argued it would curb inefficient spending, while opponents warned it could hinder the state’s ability to meet evolving needs in health, education, and social services.
Spending growth tied to population
The other measure sought to cap the rise in constrained costs so that it would not exceed population growth. Although exemptions were provided, any deviation would require a two-thirds vote from the Grand Conseil to be enacted as part of the annual budget.
Reactions and interpretation
Socialist deputy Caroline Marti welcomed the defeat of the measures, calling it a relief because implementing them could have harmed the range and quality of public services. “The implementation would have had very negative effects on public services and on the state’s ability to respond to tough economic and social situations,” she said. She noted that while the rules allowed for extraordinary-situation exemptions, the notion was vague and difficult to anticipate in advance.
Marti added that the electorate did not fall for a highly aggressive campaign from the political right, insisting that voters were thoughtful observers of the proposals and their practical consequences.
Implications for public services and future budgets
With the budget project projecting a deficit of around 409 million, the question remains whether the canton’s spending would have been further constrained by the proposed laws. Marti argued that although the measures might have slowed certain expenditures, the defeat preserves the legislature’s ability to set policy and adjust spending as needed. If deficits persist in the coming years, the canton could pursue a combination of reforms and revenue-enhancing measures rather than relying solely on spending caps.
The road ahead for Geneva
Looking forward, Geneva’s budget planning will have to balance maintaining high-quality public services with the realities of a growing population and ongoing fiscal pressures. The vote signals a preference for adaptable governance, allowing lawmakers to tailor spending and revenues to actual needs rather than adhering to rigid caps. The canton is likely to reexamine revenue options and efficiency measures to address any structural deficits in the medium term.
