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Switzerland criticised in Amnesty report

Amnesty International has accused at least 111 nations of torture and abuse in its annual report; that’s more than half of the world’s countries.

The report, released on Thursday, states that 159 nations violated human rights in 2009.

It found fault with Switzerland, too. The report describes racism and discrimination against foreigners as worrying.

In particular, Amnesty International criticises the November vote to ban the construction of minarets as well as the campaign leading up to it.

It also voiced concern for the situation of asylum seekers whose applications had been turned down.

However, it did give Switzerland credit for its willingness to harbour former Guantanamo prisoners.

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