The right-wingers are already preparing new initiatives for the ballot box; Switzerland to be hit by a heatwave; plus other news in our roundup this Tuesday.
Far-right already has new initiatives up its sleeve
Although the Swiss People’s Party (SVP) has suffered a defeat when its “No 10 million” initiative was rejected by nearly 55 percent of voters on June 14th, the party is ready for other battles.
For instance, its bid to safeguard Switzerland’s neutrality is already scheduled for a national vote on September 27th.
The party is also preparing the ‘Border Protection Initiative’, aiming to stop asylum seekers from entering illegally into Switzerland.
Additionally, it is focusing on strengthening its opposition to a future referendum on the country’s new agreements with the European Union.
38C: The heatwave will hit Switzerland tomorrow
Starting on Wednesday, forecasts call for extremely hot weather, with meteorologists predicting temperatures exceeding 30C in some regions.
Basel residents will be the ones sweltering the mos in the 38C heat, with inhabitants of other regions faring only slightly better: highs of 35C are likely.
During the heatwave, the weather will be mostly dry throughout Switzerland, with thunderstorms expected on Friday, especially in the western part of the country.
Resistance is growing in Geneva against the burkini ban
The cantonal law mandates that all swimwear in public swimming pools must end above the knee and leave the arms uncovered. This means that the Islamic burkinis are not allowed.
However, some municipalities are against this legislation.
Vernier, Meyrin, Carouge, Lancy, and the city of Geneva have filed objections to this regulation.
The four municipalities believe that the law is incompatible with the public health goals, arguing that body-covering clothing like the burkini is a recognised means of preventing the harmful effects of the sun and contributes to the fight against skin cancer.
Swiss MPs approve nearly 60 million francs more for EU programmes
The Parliament has released 58.3 million francs for European research programmes in which Switzerland will continue to participate.
Specifically, these funds are earmarked for Horizon Europe and Euratom research programmes, along with other EU projects.
After several years of being excluded from participation, Switzerland rejoined the programmes in 2025, and the government wants to ensure the country’s continued inclusion in the world’s largest research infrastructure.
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