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Three referendums were held in Switzerland during 1898.[1] The first was held on 20 February on a federal law that would nationalise the railways, and was approved by a majority of voters,[1] leading to the establishment of Swiss Federal Railways in 1902. The second and third referendums were held on 13 November on revising article 64 and adding article 64bis to the constitution, both of which were approved by a majority of voters and cantons.[1]

Background

The referendums on the constitutional amendments were mandatory referendums,[1] which required a double majority; a majority of the popular vote and majority of the cantons.[2] The decision of each canton was based on the vote in that canton.[2] Full cantons counted as one vote, whilst half cantons counted as half.[2] The railways referendum was an optional referendum,[1] which required only a majority of the public vote.[2]

Results

Railway nationalisation

Choice Votes %
For 386,634 67.9
Against 182,718 32.1
Blank votes 2,754 –
Invalid votes 1,459 –
Total 573,565 100
Registered voters/turnout 734,644 78.1
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

Amendment to article 64 of the constitution

Choice Popular vote Cantons
Votes % Full Half Total
For 264,914 72.2 15 3 16.5
Against 101,762 27.8 4 3 5.5
Blank votes 15,922 – – – –
Invalid votes 4,628 – – – –
Total 387,226 100 19 6 22
Registered voters/turnout 734,075 52.8 – – –
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

Addition of article 64bis to the constitution

Choice Popular vote Cantons
Votes % Full Half Total
For 266,610 72.4 15 3 16.5
Against 101,780 27.6 4 3 5.5
Blank votes 15,300 – – – –
Invalid votes 3,903 – – – –
Total 387,593 100 19 6 22
Registered voters/turnout 734,075 52.8 – – –
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

References

  1. ^ a b c d e Nohlen, D & Stöver, P (2010) Elections in Europe: A data handbook, p1905 ISBN 9783832956097
  2. ^ a b c d Nohlen & Stöver, p1891
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