Swiss voters have narrowly approved a proposal to introduce electronic identity cards in the country. After all votes were counted, 50.4% voted in favor of the plan, while 49.6% opposed it. The results were a surprise, as pre-vote polls had shown a much stronger backing, with up to 60% of voters in favor. This marks the second time Switzerland has held a nationwide referendum on digital IDs, following a rejected proposal in 2021. That earlier plan was rejected due to concerns over centralizing data and giving private providers too much control over personal information. The revised proposal, approved on Sunday, promises to keep control within the Swiss government, with personal data stored only on individual smartphones. Additionally, the digital IDs will be optional, and Swiss citizens can still use the traditional national identity card if they prefer. The proposal had support from both the Swiss government and parliament, but it faced opposition from those concerned about privacy and the centralization of data.
Original title: Swiss voters approve plan for electronic identity cards
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