Switzerland proposes ban on Nazi symbols in response to rising antisemitism

Switzerland plans to ban Nazi symbols, including the swastika and Hitler salute, in response to rising antisemitism. The proposed law would impose fines for public use of these symbols and extend to lesser-known signs associated with Nazi ideology. The Swiss Federal Council emphasized the urgency of this ban due to a significant increase in antisemitic incidents, particularly following the recent Israel-Hamas conflict. The consultation period for the proposed ban will last until March 31, 2025. The law will allow exceptions for educational and artistic purposes but will not affect existing religious symbols that resemble Nazi symbols. Antisemitic incidents in Switzerland rose sharply, with a 70% increase reported in French-speaking regions last year.