Integration is a key requirement for any foreigner arriving in Switzerland. Now a multi-party coalition in Zurich wants refugees to sign a document to that effect.
The Liberal Radicals (PLR), the Swiss People’s Party (SVP), and the Centre Party have submitted a joint motion in the cantonal parliament seeking to obligate all refugees and asylum seekers coming to Zurich to sign an integration agreement.
According to the joint press release, the motion calls on the parliament “to introduce a binding integration contract that sets out the rights, obligations, as well norms and values of our society”.
Six points
The proposed agreement would include the following six fundamental values.
- Men and women are equal
- The law prevails over religion
- Everyone learns/masters a national language
- Children attend compulsory school without exception
- Integration into the labour market within one year
- Respect laws and don’t commit offences
“The integration agreement should communicate expectations right from the start, so that those concerned can act accordingly,” said PLR deputy Martin Huber.
“The integration agreement contains rights and obligations, just as they exist for Swiss citizens.”
As for The Centre MP Alexia Bischof, she calls for measures that specifically integrate immigrants.
“Clear and uniform processes and binding guidelines are needed to ensure the same approach is taken in all communities,” she said.
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Dissuasive effect
Another motion instigator, René Truninger from the Swiss People’s Party (SVP), believes that “having to comply with the obligations set out in the integration contract could make Switzerland less appealing for many newcomers”.
“As soon as integration comes with obligations, a country becomes less attractive,” he pointed out.
Those who adhere to the terms outlined in the contract, however, will become “well-integrated” and will therefore have better prospects for the future, he added.
PLR’s Huber noted too, that integration agreements are already provided for in the Aliens Act and are used when granting or extending residence permits, but not to refugees.
Sanctions for non-compliance have yet to be developed, but financial losses or withdrawal of the right of residence are conceivable.
READ ALSO: When do the Swiss think a foreigner is successfully integrated
