Switzerland holds referendum on making homophobia illegal

Opponents of making discrimination a crime claim it ‘kills freedom’

The ballot will ask voters whether or not to confirm an 'anti-homophobia' law that has the approval of the Swiss parliament (Reuters)

Swiss voters will head to the polls on Sunday to decide whether to support a measure that would make it illegal to discriminate against people based on their sexual orientation.

Polls show solid support for what has been billed as an “anti-homophobia” law, but opponents gathered enough signatures in a petition drive to put the issue to a public ballot. Switzerland holds regular referendums that give voters a direct say in policy-making.

The referendum asks voters whether they support a legal change that passed through parliament in December 2018 to strengthen the criminal and military justice codes against incitement of hatred and discrimination.

Opponents of those efforts insist such moves violate a right to freedom of opinion.

The measures, which expand on existing laws banning racial discrimination, would make it illegal to publicly denigrate, discriminate against, or stir up hatred against people based on their sexual orientation.

Operators of restaurants, cinemas and public facilities such as swimming pools, for example, would not be able to discriminate against anyone based on their sexual orientation if the measure passes.

Backers of a small political party, which claims to have Christian values and is behind the petition, say parliamentary efforts would be “freedom-killing” and that protections against denigration are already enshrined in Swiss law.

Supporters of the parliamentary moves say the enhancements to Swiss anti-racism laws are needed and will not prevent legitimate public debate – as long as it doesn’t stray into fomenting hate or discrimination.

Green, left-leaning and centrist parties support the enhanced protections, while the populist, right-wing Swiss People’s Party – the largest single faction in parliament – opposes them.

Results are expected at around midday on Sunday, after polls close. Most voters have already cast their ballots through the post.

Associated Press