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Switzerland says yes to discrimination protections for LGBTIQ+ people


LGBTIQ+ communities in Switzerland are celebrating the success of a referendum to update anti-discrimination laws to cover discrimination on the basis of sexuality.

In a public vote over the weekend, over 63% of voters marked their ballots in favour of the amendment to current laws, which previously protected citizens from discrimination on the basic of race, ethnicity and faith.

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Referendums are far more common in the Swiss Confederation when compared to other democratic nations, with direct democracy entrenched as a cornerstone of the Swiss political system.

“This result sends a strong sign of acceptance for lesbians, gays and bisexuals,” Roman Heggli of Swiss LGBTIQ+ advocacy organisation Pink Cross said in a statement.

“The LGBTI community will use this momentum to achieve the consistent implementation of the penal code and to enforce marriage equality.”

While Switzerland has recognised same-sex relationships through registered partnerships since 2007, marriage equality is yet to be achieved in the European nation. Swiss laws also prevent same-sex couples from adoption children, or accessing IVF.

Heggli says this ‘yes’ result shows that the Swiss people are ready for marriage equality.

“Parliament now needs to take a step forward.”

Swiss People’s Party MP and Justice Minister Karin Keller-Sutter said the vote sends a message that discrimination is not tolerated in Switzerland.

In a survey commissioned by Pink Cross, 63% of respondents said they supported equal marriage rights for same-sex couples, with 18% mostly in favour, and 10% saying no.

OIP Staff


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