Switzerland proposes new laws against extremism

Although Switzerland has so far been spared from the deadly extremist attacks that have hit Germany, France and Belgium in recent years, it has been cautious and monitors hundreds of alleged extremist threats within the jihad-monitoring national programme.

Swiss Federal Police Director Nicolae de la Vale said she expects dozens of people to be hit with new measures if they are approved.

Under new measures, individuals allegedly inclined to extremist behavior must be reported to police and can be seized in order to prevent them from travelling abroad.

Individuals suspected of threatening and pending deportation could be held in custody, and Swiss police will be granted new competencies to secretly monitor suspects through electronic devices.

“Although Switzerland is a safe place, there is still a threat,” said Interior Minister Karin Keller Suiter.