Swiss voters have rejected by a wide margin a proposal to introduce a guaranteed basic income for everyone living in the wealthy country after an uneasy debate about the future of work at a time of increasing automation.


Supporters had said introducing a monthly income of 2,500 Swiss francs (Rs 1.7 lakh) per adult and 625 francs per child under 18 no matter how much they work would promote human dignity and public service.


Opponents, including the government, said it would cost too much and weaken the economy.


Provisional final results showed 76.9% of voters opposed the bold social experiment launched by Basel cafe owner Daniel Haeni and allies in a vote under the Swiss system of direct democracy.
Haeni acknowledged defeat but claimed a moral victory.

"As a businessman I am a realist and had reckoned with 15% support, now it looks like more than 20% or maybe even 25%. I find that fabulous and sensational,' he told SRF.