People convicted of terrorist activities could face up to 20 years in prison according to the Swiss government.
This content was published on
2 minutes
swissinfo.ch/urs
The proposal, presented by Justice Minister Simonetta Sommaruga on Friday, is part of a series of measures, to be discussed by parliament. They are aimed at improving international efforts to crack down on terrorism.
They include raising the minimum and maximum sentences, as well as outlawing the financing of terrorism.
“Switzerland must not become a safe haven for sponsors of terrorism,” Sommaruga told a news conference on Wednesday.
The government also wants to make recruiting as well as training of militants and trips for terrorist purposes punishable offences.
The proposed amendments, which are in line with decisions by the Council of Europe and demands by parliament, also aim to speed up legal assistance with other countries.
“It’s crucial not to lose any time in the case of an imminent terrorist attack. Therefore, Switzerland wants to provide information and evidence to other countries as soon as possible,” she explained.
Three steps
The proposals are part of a series of projects to boost the fight against terrorism.
Last year, the national government, the cantons and local authorities approved a programme to combat radicalisation and militant extremism.
In addition, the government has presented a proposal to boost police powers to deal with people deemed potential security threats before they are subject to a criminal investigation.
Swiss climate activists block vehicles near Gotthard tunnel
This content was published on
Around ten climate activists briefly blocked the A2 motorway near the northern entrance of the Gotthard tunnel on Thursday.
Watches belonging to Michael Schumacher up for auction
This content was published on
Schumacher's family is auctioning off eight rare watches from his collection in Geneva. The Christie's auction will take place on Monday.
Joya Marleen and Baschi named best solo acts at Swiss Music Awards
This content was published on
St. Gallen singer Joya Marleen and Baschi from Basel were named artists of the year at the Swiss Music Awards 2024 on Wednesday night.
Swiss authorities announce cost-cutting in asylum sector
This content was published on
The government notably wants to improve integration into the labour force, particularly for people with protection status S.
Various leaders confirm participation at Ukraine peace conference
This content was published on
The presidents of Poland, Finland, and Latvia and the prime ministers of Spain and Belgium will be at the Swiss-hosted talks in mid-June.
This content was published on
In the winter season up to April 2024, railway and cable car operators ferried 3% more visitors compared to the previous winter, and 5% more than the five-year average.
Rhine flooding: Swiss to invest CHF1 billion with Austria
This content was published on
As part of an international agreement with Austria, the Swiss government wants to pump CHF1 billion ($1.1 billion) into flood protection measures along the Rhine over the next three decades.
Swiss government proposes CHF10 million UNRWA donation
This content was published on
After months of debate, Switzerland plans to give CHF10 million ($11 million) to the UN agency this year, rather than the CHF20 million initially foreseen.
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.
Read more
More
Swiss underline responsibility in terror financing fight
This content was published on
Justice Minister Simonetta Sommaruga has said that Switzerland must assume its responsibilities in the fight against terrorism financing.
Government invests in anti-radicalisation projects
This content was published on
The funds, to be spent over five years, are to help kickstart projects to raise awareness, provide counselling and launch information campaigns. This will be done in collaboration with cantonal and municipal authorities as well as civil society, according to the Federal Police Office. The principles of the programme were agreed on and announced last…
Terrorism and financial crimes keep Attorney General busy
This content was published on
The Swiss Attorney General took on 237 new investigations in 2017, mainly linked to international economic crimes and terrorism.
This content was published on
Swiss cautiously welcome proposal to link countries’ data systems and better cooperation with the western Balkans as ways to fight terrorism.
This content was published on
Switzerland is creating a pool of experts to help local authorities deal with suspected jihadist fighters returning from combat zones such as Syria.
Government seeks to boost police anti-terror powers
This content was published on
People not subject to criminal proceedings could still be held under house arrest if deemed a potential terror threat, the government proposes.
Swiss government uncoordinated in terror simulation exercise
This content was published on
A simulation of terrorist acts that included a hostage situation at the UN, an attack on a railway station and a potential nuclear plant leak.
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.