Incidents of racism increased by 24 percent in Switzerland in 2023
Published: Saturday, Apr 27th 2024, 16:10
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In Switzerland, 24 percent more racist incidents were reported last year. The war in the Middle East has intensified racist and anti-Semitic dynamics in society, writes the Federal Commission against Racism (FCR) in a press release.
A total of 876 cases of racial discrimination were reported (2022: 708), according to a press release issued by the FCR on Sunday. The most frequently cited motives for discrimination were xenophobia and hostility towards foreigners (387) and anti-black racism (327).
There was also an increase in counseling cases due to hostility towards people from the Arab world (69 reports) and the related category of anti-Muslim racism (62 mentions). There was also a marked increase in cases of anti-Semitism (46).
The increase is due to social developments and events over the course of the year. The war in the Middle East has intensified racist and anti-Semitic dynamics in society and has therefore also had an impact on people living in Switzerland.
Education sector most frequently affected
In 2023, the education sector was most affected with 181 cases. In 2022, this was still the workplace. The steady increase in reports here illustrates the importance of discrimination-sensitive educational work with pupils. Ongoing training and the provision of tools for prevention and intervention are also needed for all school staff.
In addition, the advisory network received numerous reports from people who were not directly affected. They wanted to take action against the spread of prejudice and discriminatory statements and illustrations during the election campaigns. This mobilization of solidarity is of central importance for overcoming and combating racism.
Experiences of racism lead to a loss of trust in institutions and society, the FCR continued. Measures are needed to identify and dismantle racist structures and discrimination.
©Keystone/SDA
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