Swiss voters have rejected proposals to introduce the world’s highest minimum wage of 22 Swiss francs, or about 25 US dollars an hour.
Final results from Sunday’s referendum showed that about 76 percent of voters dismissed the proposal made by the Swiss union SGB.The referendum is the latest in a slew of initiatives being put to voters to try to address the widening income gap in the country.
Supporters of the minimum wage had argued the proposed measure would have helped smooth out salary inequality and ensure a person working full-time can earn a decent living. The proposed minimum wage was equal to about 4,500 US dollars a month.
The clear rejection of the proposal brings relief to business leaders, who worried the measure would have hurt competitiveness and damaged the Swiss workplace. There were, however, mixed views on the streets of Geneva.
"No, I am not really disappointed because I voted against it. We always think of others but I don’t think it was ideal for Switzerland." Isaline Hugues, Geneva resident said.
"Yes, I am disappointed because there is still a big difference in wages between rich and poor people." Anna, a Geneva resident said.