Two referendums were held in Switzerland during 1942.^[1] The first was held on 25 January on a popular initiative that would provide for the direct election of the Federal Council, as well as increasing the number of members.^[2] It was rejected by voters.^[1] The second was held on 3 May on a popular initiative "for the reorganisation of the National Council", and was also rejected.^[1]

The referendums were both popular initiatives,^[1] which required a double majority; a majority of the popular vote and majority of the cantons.^[3] The decision of each canton was based on the vote in that canton.^[3] Full cantons counted as one vote, whilst half cantons counted as half.^[3]