Thousands demonstrate against Covid-19 restrictions in Lucerne
Critics of the government policy gathered on the banks of Lake Lucerne.
Keystone / Urs Flueeler
A demonstration against the restrictions linked to the coronavirus saw almost 5,000 people gather in central Swiss city of Lucerne. A counter-demonstration also took place.
This content was published on
2 minutes
Keystone-SDA/ac
On Saturday, critics of the government’s coronavirus policy marched through the old town of Lucerne to the Inselipark on the left bank of the lake to hold a rally with speeches. The demonstration was organised by the “Action alliance of the founding cantons for a sensible Corona policy” (Aktionsbündnis Urkantone für eine vernünftige Corona-Politik) that was also behind the unsuccessful referendum against the Covid-19 law held in June. The protesters said that they do not want to be under the guardianship of the state in the name of a pandemic anymore.
At the same time, about 100 people gathered on the other side of the lake for a counter-demonstration organised by the leftwing “Alliance for a colourful Lucerne” (Bündnis Buntes Luzern). The participants protested against “right-wing agitation and conspiracy theories” and accused the critics of the anti-Covid measures of tolerating neo-Nazis in their ranks. Both demonstrations had obtained prior authorisation from the city officials.
Geneva too saw protest action on Saturday. Close to 800 people demonstrated against the restrictions linked to the coronavirus. The demonstrators chanted “Freedom, freedom!” and criticised the requirement in some European countries – like neighbouring France – for a Covid health passes to access restaurants or events.
This content was published on
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) will not be flying to Tel Aviv up to and including June 8 due to the current situation in the Middle East.
Italy and Switzerland agree on taxation of cross-border workers
This content was published on
The Italian government has approved the agreement with Switzerland on the taxation of so-called teleworking by cross-border commuters.
Nestlé water scandal: French state accused of cover-up
This content was published on
In the scandal surrounding the illegal treatment of mineral water in France, there was reportedly a cover-up of unauthorised practices by Swiss food giant Nestlé.
Air fleet of Swiss administration deemed too large
This content was published on
In the view of the Swiss Federal Audit Office, the size of the fleet should be reduced or the aircraft leased to improve cost-effectiveness.
MSC Cruises places CHF3 billion order for two more sea giants
This content was published on
Italo-Swiss company MSC Crociere has confirmed an order to the Saint-Nazaire Atlantic Shipyards for two ships worth around €3.5 billion.
Situation calm overnight above Swiss village facing avalanche
This content was published on
The situation in the Valais village of Blatten VS, which was threatened by a landslide, remained calm on Tuesday night. The anxiety continues, especially for the 300 evacuated residents.
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 Covid law set for second public vote
This content was published on
Opponents have handed in signatures to force another vote on the law underpinning many of the government’s coronavirus measures.
Vaccine scepticism – a phenomenon in affluent societies
This content was published on
Some parents in Switzerland decide not to have their children vaccinated, which prevents the full eradication of certain diseases. Why?
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.