Three referendums were held in Switzerland during 1894.[1] The first was held on 4 March on a federal resolution to amend the constitution regarding trade and commerce, and was rejected by a majority of voters and cantons.[1] The second was held on 3 June on a popular initiative on the right to work, and was rejected by a majority of voters and all cantons.[1] The third was held on 4 November 1894 on a popular initiative on a partial contribution to tariffs from the cantons, and was also rejected by a majority of voters and cantons.[1]
The referendums on the right to work and tariffs were popular initiatives, whilst the referendum on trade was a mandatory referendum.[1] Both types required a double majority; a majority of the popular vote and majority of the cantons.[2] The decision of each canton was based on the vote in that canton.[2] Full cantons counted as one vote, whilst half cantons counted as half.[2]