The lower house of Switzerland’s parliament has voted to approve a ban on the public display, wearing, and use of Nazi and other extremist, racist symbols. This ban includes symbols that could foment extremist hate or violence, going beyond just Nazi memorabilia. The ban, which had failed in the past, received support from a multiparty coalition and overcame opposition from the right-wing Swiss People’s Party. The National Council passed the measure in a 133-38 vote with 17 abstentions, putting Switzerland on track to join other European countries with similar bans.
Efforts to push for tougher legislation have increased due to a surge in antisemitic attacks across Europe following the start of the latest Israel-Hamas war in Gaza more than six months ago. The war began after militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad attacked southern Israel and resulted in widespread devastation, with thousands killed. Green lawmaker Raphael Mahaim stressed the importance of the ban, stating that it is currently possible in Switzerland to display symbols such as the swastika or make a Hitler salute in public spaces, which he finds intolerable.
Despite support for the ban, Zurich lawmaker Barbara Steinemann of the Swiss People’s Party disagreed with its necessity. She argued that the ban would do little to prevent antisemitic attacks and that Jews in Switzerland still face a climate of fear. Steinemann referenced a recent stabbing incident targeting a Jewish man in Zurich as evidence of the ongoing antisemitism in the country. She also expressed concerns that the ban on symbols may not address the root causes of antisemitism present in universities and intellectual environments.
The ban on extremist symbols will now head to the executive Federal Council for finalization before being written into law by parliament. Justice Minister Beat Jans indicated that the council supports the measure and highlighted the need for clear legislation that specifies which actions are allowed and which are prohibited. He also emphasized the importance of providing flexibility to make changes easily if necessary. The passage of this ban marks a significant step towards combating hate speech and extremism in Switzerland, aligning the country with other European nations in taking a stand against such symbols.
