Opponents of new Swiss laws to combat terrorism have gathered enough signatures to challenge the controversial legislation by referendum. They argue that the law violates civil liberties, particularly those of children.
The “No to Preventative Punishment” committee handed in 142,800 signatures on Thursday, enough to trigger a popular vote on the issue.
Late last year, Switzerland’s parliament voted through a legislative package to clamp down on terrorism and extremist violence. The reform introduces a provision punishing recruitment, training and travel with a view to committing a terrorist act, as well as financing activities. Those who support criminal or terrorist organisations could face up to ten years’ imprisonment.
Critics of the law complain that children as young as 12 can be subject to electronic monitoring and be banned from leaving the country. They argue that some measures in the law are draconian and go beyond the intention of preventing crimes.
The law changes were brought about following recommendations from the government to crack down on growing extremist and terrorist-related offences in Switzerland. These have included several Swiss citizens joining jihadist movements and the radicalisation of youths and young adults.
The “No to Preventative Punishment” committee is a collection of left-leaning political parties and other organisations. Earlier this week members of several right-leaning political parties stated that the anti-terror laws were proportionate and necessary to protect citizens from extremist violence.
Most Read Swiss Abroad
More
Switzerland and EU reach deal on future bilateral relations
Have you heard something about Swiss diplomacy that you’d like us to fact check?
Not all information circulating about Switzerland’s foreign relations is accurate or well understood. Tell us what you'd like us to fact check or clarify.
Researchers find high microbial diversity in glacial streams
This content was published on
Swiss researchers have discovered a surprising diversity of microorganisms in glacial streams around the world. However, this diversity is under threat as soon as it is discovered.
This content was published on
Fewer electric cars were sold in Switzerland in 2024 compared to the previous year. The electric mobility association Swiss eMobility says this is only a temporary dip.
This content was published on
Sunshine and fresh snow attracted winter sports fans to Swiss ski resorts over the holiday period. Many ski stations reported record figures.
New Year’s speech: President Keller-Sutter praises Swiss modesty
This content was published on
The Swiss president for 2025, Karin Keller-Sutter, has underlined the importance of compromise and modesty in Swiss politics in her New Year’s address to the nation.
Lindt wins ‘chocolate ball’ legal case against Aldi
This content was published on
Chocolate manufacturer Lindt & Sprüngli has won a legal case against the retailer Aldi Suisse for infringing the trademark rights of its Lindor chocolate balls.
Campaigners want Swiss central bank to hold bitcoin in reserves
This content was published on
Campaigners have launched a people's initiative to oblige the Swiss National Bank (SNB) to hold part of its reserves in bitcoin.
Switzerland welcomes 2025 with fireworks and ice plunges
This content was published on
Fireworks lit up the skies in Switzerland to celebrate New Year's Eve. Some people welcomed the new year by plunging into lakes in freezing temperatures.
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.
Read more
More
Voters could have a say on controversial Swiss anti-terror law
This content was published on
A referendum attempt has been launched against legislation recently approved by parliament to prevent extremist violence.
UN experts criticise Switzerland over anti-terrorism law
This content was published on
Switzerland's draft anti-terrorism law, which is being discussed in parliament, violates international human rights standards, UN experts warn.
Terror threat remains high in Switzerland, warns Federal Intelligence Service
This content was published on
Terrorist attacks inspired by the Islamic State group remain likely in Europe, with Switzerland not invulnerable to such threats, a new report states.
Assailant in Swiss knife attack was jihadist, say police
This content was published on
A woman has been arrested in Lugano after injuring two other women with a knife in a suspected terror attack at a department store.
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.