Switzerland unveils first action plan to combat anti‑LGBTIQ+ hate crimes

Switzerland needs to do more to protect LGBTIQ+ people from hate crimes. On Wednesday, the Swiss government unveiled the country’s first National Action Plan to tackle anti-LGBTIQ+ hate crimes, which will run from 2026 to 2030. + Get the most important news from Switzerland in your inbox Criminal penalties for discrimination and incitement to hatred based on sexual orientation, the simplified process for registering a change of gender and first name and the introduction of marriage equality all mark major steps forward for LGBTIQ+ rights. But despite these gains, many people still face discrimination and violence in their daily lives, the government said in a statement. + Read more: Gay conversion therapies in Switzerland continue to take a toll The new strategy aims to create a safer and more respectful environment for LGBTIQ+ people by strengthening protections against violence and hostile behaviour and, in doing so, improving safety for society as a whole. It sets out 12 measures.