Minorities and vulnerable groups
Switzerland, a country whose identity is grounded in diversity and coexistence among different linguistic communities and other groups, is committed to the protection of minorities and vulnerable groups.
The Universal Declaration of Human rights states that all human beings are “born free and equal in dignity and rights”. The prohibition of discrimination is a closely related idea that is enshrined in various international treaties.
Linguistic, religious, ethnic, national and other minorities are under pressure in all regions of the world. Some are subject to systematic persecution. Ongoing conflicts and political instability contribute to discrimination against minorities, and are often the cause of it.
In its work, Switzerland follows a holistic approach that respects and promotes the rights of all minority groups (linguistic, religious, ethnic and national) alike.
Priority commitments here are:
- linguistic minorities – ensuring that minorities are able to use their own language and that linguistic diversity is seen as a socio-cultural asset, for example, through Switzerland's own widespread experience in this field and in dialogue with other countries;
- protecting religious minorities including any form of discrimination or persecution of people on the basis of their faith or beliefs;
- combating discrimination against ethnic minorities and fostering measures aimed at promoting pluralism and respect for differences among people;
- protecting people with greater security needs or whose individual rights are particularly at risk such as migrants or LGBTI persons.
Contact
State Secretariat STS-FDFA
Peace and Human Rights Division
Effingerstrasse 27
3003 Bern