Vaud Voters Approve Minimum Wage Principle in Constitution

Voters in the Swiss canton of Vaud have approved the principle of a minimum wage by enshrining it in the cantonal constitution, marking a significant political victory for left-wing parties and trade unions.

However, voters simultaneously rejected the proposed legislation that would have introduced a minimum wage of CHF23 per hour, creating uncertainty about how the measure will be implemented in practice.

Mixed Result in Historic Vote

The constitutional initiative received support from 49.1% of voters, while 45.8% voted against it. More than 5% submitted blank ballots.

At the same time, the legislative proposal to establish a minimum wage of CHF23 per hour failed to secure majority support.

The cantonal government’s alternative proposal, which included the same wage level but gave priority to collective labour agreements and allowed several exemptions, was also narrowly rejected.

Voter turnout reached 54%, reflecting strong public interest in the issue.

New Legal Framework Required

With both legislative options rejected, the Vaud cantonal government must now develop a new legal framework to implement the constitutional requirement.

Supporters of the initiative described the result as an important symbolic victory because the principle of a minimum wage is now officially protected within the cantonal constitution.

Trade unions and political supporters have expressed willingness to work with authorities to find common ground on issues such as transition periods, exemptions, and the role of collective labour agreements.

Government Seeks Broad Consensus

The Vaud government acknowledged the outcome and announced that it would carefully analyze the voting results before consulting employers, unions, and other social partners.

Officials stated that the goal is to create a proposal capable of achieving broad political and public support while respecting the newly adopted constitutional provision.

Impact on Swiss Labour Policy

The vote highlights the continuing debate in Switzerland over minimum wages, workers’ rights, and the balance between state regulation and collective labour agreements.

While workers have not yet secured a legally defined minimum wage, the constitutional change ensures that the issue will remain a key topic in Vaud’s political agenda in the years ahead.