Swiss parliament wants to open apprenticeships to irregular migrants
Parliament is pushing to grant easier access to vocational training for irregular migrants in Switzerland.
The Senate followed the House of Representatives and called on the government to present a draft law.
During the debate on Wednesday, opponents argued such a policy would encourage illegal immigration defying recommendations by the justice minister Karin Keller-Sutter and a parliamentary committee.
Supporters, notably from left-wing parties, said a more liberal policy would help a handful of highly motivated young people.
Between 2013 and 2020 Switzerland temporarily opened apprenticeships to irregular migrants under strict conditions, but only about 60 people benefited from the scheme.
As a result of the latest decision, the government now has to submit a draft law to parliament.
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