Switzerland: “Yes” vote gives police sweeping powers

BERNE, 14 June. - (ANA) - Responding to a “yes” vote in a referendum in Switzerland to give the Federal Police far-reaching powers in the fight against so-called “potential terrorist offenders” Amnesty International Switzerland’s Campaign Director, Patrick Walder said:

“Whilst the desire among Swiss voters to prevent acts of terrorism is understandable, these new measures are not the answer. They provide the police with sweeping and mostly unchecked powers to impose harsh sanctions against so-called 'potential terrorist offenders' and can also be used to target legitimate political protest.

“The law, which will disproportionately affect already discriminated groups, introduces a vaguely worded definition of terrorism that means anyone deemed by the authorities to be ‘spreading fear’ with political intentions could be targeted, even if they have not made any threat of violence or committed any criminal offence.

“Those wrongly suspected will have to prove that they will not be dangerous in the future and even children as young as 12 are at risk of being stigmatised and subjected to coercive measures by the police.

“We will vigilantly monitor the implementation of the law and hold the government to account for human rights violations committed in its application.”   - (ANA) -

AB/ANA/14 June 2021 - - -