Popular initiative against the construction of minarets

Voting of 29 November 2009

For the complete documentation see the pages in German, French or Italian.

What is it about?

On 29 November 2009, the Swiss people and cantons voted in favour of the popular initiative entitled "Against the Construction of Minarets". In doing so, they also voiced their approval of a new provision in the Swiss constitution: "The construction of minarets is prohibited" (article 72, paragraph 3). This new provision entered into force immediately. It does not affect the four existing minarets in Zurich, Geneva, Winterthur and Wangen, however.

Further information

• Page 'Minarets'

  On 29 November 2009, the Swiss people and cantons voted in favour of the popular initiative entitled "Against the Construction of Minarets".

• Frequently asked questions

Press conference of 29 November 2009

29.11.2009

'Yes' to popular initiative against the construction of minarets

A majority of the Swiss people and the cantons have adopted the popular initiative against the construction of minarets. The Federal Council respects this decision. Consequently the construction of new minarets in Switzerland is no longer permitted. The four existing minarets will remain. It will also be possible to continue to construct mosques. Muslims in Switzerland are able to practise their religion alone or in community with others, and live according to their beliefs just as before.

29.11.2009

Federal Council press conference on the popular vote of 29 November 2009

Statement by Federal Councillor Eveline Widmer-Schlumpf, 29 November 2009, Federal Palace Media Centre. The spoken word is imperative.

Links

27.08.2008

Federal Council opposes building ban on minarets; Opinion on the popular initiative against the construction of minarets

The popular initiative against the construction of minarets has been submitted in accordance with the applicable regulations, but infringes guaranteed international human rights and contradicts the core values of the Swiss Federal Constitution. Such a ban would endanger peace between religions and would not help to prevent the spread of fundamentalist Islamic beliefs. In its Opinion, passed on Wednesday, the Federal Council therefore recommends that the Swiss parliament reject the initiative without making a counter-proposal.

• Religions, the State and Society

  NRP 58

Last modification 29.11.2009