Military historian Stig Förster has criticised Swiss security policy, stating that Switzerland has long been unable to defend itself and is a "free rider" on NATO.

The comments come as the Neutrality Initiative, which seeks to enshrine perpetual, armed neutrality in the Federal Constitution, prepares for a vote on 27 September. While Switzerland spends less than one per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP) on its military, most European nations are increasing spending to three per cent or more following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the partial U.S. withdrawal from NATO commitments.

Förster, a professor emeritus at the University of Bern, argues that neutrality was not inherent to Switzerland but was imposed by great powers at the Congress of Vienna in 1814–1815 to create a neutral hub in central Europe. He noted that while Switzerland's geography previously provided a defensive advantage, advances in military technology in the 20th century changed this dynamic.

Reflecting on historical neutrality, Förster stated that the practice served as a business venture. He noted that during World War I, Switzerland sheltered Belgian silver, and during World War II, it provided precision instruments to the German Wehrmacht and stored gold reserves looted by the Third Reich. He also dismissed the claim by World War II commander-in-chief General Henri Guisan that the Réduit prevented a Wehrmacht invasion as propaganda, asserting that the military would have starved and been forced to surrender.

Regarding modern capabilities, Förster expressed doubt that "enhanced neutrality" is viable, noting that Switzerland lacks a significant defence industry and does not possess its own satellites for space-based communications and surveillance.

Michael Götte, an SVP member of the National Council and Swiss Army colonel, stated that Swiss security policy relies on neutrality, preparedness, and deterrence.

"A credible deterrent also requires a modern and strong army,"

Götte emphasised that the goal is to prevent an attack by providing the army with necessary resources to handle conventional war, hybrid warfare, and cyberattacks.