1893 Swiss animal protection referendum explained

Date:20 August 1893
Country:Switzerland
Federal popular initiative 'for a ban on slaughter without prior stunning'
Yes:191,527
No:127,101
Invalid:10,355
Electorate:668,913

A referendum on animal protection was held in Switzerland on 20 August 1893.[1] Voters were asked whether they approved of prohibiting butchering without the animals being anaesthetised.[1] The proposal was approved by 60.1% of voters and a narrow majority of cantons.[1]

Background

The referendum was a popular initiative,[1] forced by the collection of 100,000 signatures.[2] As it involved changing the constitution, a double majority of both votes and cantons was required for the proposal to pass.[2]

Results

ChoicePopular voteCantons
Votes%FullHalfTotal
For191,52760.110311.5
Against127,10139.99310.5
Blank votes8,600
Invalid votes1,755
Total328,98310019622
Registered voters/turnout668,91349.2
align=left colspan=6Source: Nohlen & Stöver

Notes and References

  1. [Dieter Nohlen|Nohlen, D]
  2. Nohlen & Stöver, p1891