Vorarlberg and Switzerland: A forgotten referendum awakens!

Vorarlberg and Switzerland: A forgotten referendum awakens!

The debate about Vorarlberg's possible affiliation with Switzerland, which began in 1919, is currently becoming more explosive again. On May 11, 1919, the population of Vorarlberg voted in a referendum on whether the state government should begin accession negotiations with Switzerland. Voters approved these negotiations by an overwhelming majority of 81.2% with a voter turnout of 81%. The discussion has gained new momentum on social media, particularly on platforms such as Reddit, where there is speculation about the historical events and possible alternative scenarios. Vol.at reports that the political situation after the First World War was characterized by the collapse of Austria-Hungary and significant economic hardship in Vorarlberg.

According to various reports, support for joining Switzerland was strong among the population. However, despite the broad support, there was significant resistance from important social groups, including industry representatives, railway workers and the clergy. The term “Canton Left” was coined by Anton Zumtobel and was intended to allude ironically to Vorarlberg’s ambitions. Switzerland itself initially signaled its willingness to talk, but remained neutral in the crucial phase.

Background and results of the referendum

The referendum took place against the backdrop of an unclear political future for German Austria. Vorarlberg suffered severely from the post-war economy, which increased the desire to join neighboring Switzerland. According to reports, Vorarlberg was mainly populated by ordinary citizens who wanted the annexation, while the majority of elites voted to remain in German-Austria. On the day of the vote, 57,655 voters (81%) took part, with 46,825 of them (81%) voting in favor of accession negotiations. The project received support in almost all communities, with the exception of the communities of Bludenz, Hittisau and Bolgenach. Wikipedia points out that from the Vorarlbergers' perspective, the vote was an opportunity to find a voice in the uncertain post-war period.

Nevertheless, the application for membership was only received by the Swiss Foreign Minister in Bern in March 1919. Austrian Chancellor Karl Renner opposed the idea of ​​an annexation and international reactions were overwhelmingly negative. The “Council of Four” – consisting of the USA, Great Britain, France and Italy – announced on December 17, 1919 that it would not support Vorarlberg’s secession from Austria. This decision prevented Vorarlberg from realizing its desire for independence.

Consequences for Vorarlberg

After the vote, Vorarlberg became part of the Republic of Austria through the Treaty of Saint-Germain in 1919. In 1920 it was constitutionally established as a federal state. Otto Ender, the governor of Vorarlberg, campaigned strongly for accession to Switzerland and later became Austrian Chancellor. However, the ambitions for a connection to Switzerland became less important as the Republic of Austria stabilized. The last remnant of the secession movement became meaningless in the following years.

In summary, it should be noted that the historic referendum of 1919 not only shaped Vorarlberg's identity, but is also considered an important example of the complex political circumstances in the post-war period. Austria Forum also explains that the economic difficulties and alienation from Vienna fueled the pursuit of a connection to Switzerland, but that resistance ultimately prevented both projects. The discussion about these events and their impact remains current and continues to stimulate debate.