Bern Canton Updates Spatial Development Plan
The Bern Cantonal Government has updated its spatial development plan, Richtplan 24, focusing on climate protection, energy, and infrastructure. The plan designates solar and wind areas, enhances publ

Legal Affairs
Julian Fischer is a legal affairs correspondent specializing in Swiss jurisprudence and public administration. He covers court decisions, legislative developments, and social policy impacts across various cantons.
20 published articles
The Bern Cantonal Government has updated its spatial development plan, Richtplan 24, focusing on climate protection, energy, and infrastructure. The plan designates solar and wind areas, enhances publ
A Bern project manager was fined 3,070 Swiss francs after a worker fell 2.2 meters from an unsecured roof. The site lacked a safety concept and proper edge protection, leading to the worker's injury.
A former daycare worker in the Bern region faces 50 charges of sexually abusing at least 15 children. The alleged incidents occurred in two facilities, prompting calls for improved vetting and a natio
Bern's pilot emergency shelter for Finta individuals and women has been at full capacity since July 2025, revealing a critical demand for specialized housing and support services.
Bern police are searching for a man who robbed a retail store on Mädergutstrasse on October 29, 2025. The suspect threatened an employee with a knife and fled with cash. Authorities have released a de
Canton Bern will be the guest of honor at the Marché-Concours in Saignelégier in 2026, a historic first after the resolution of the Jura question, with a 600,000 franc investment.
A man attacked a passenger with a bread knife on an RBS train near Worblaufen BE, causing passengers to flee. Police arrested two suspects. RBS reports increasing train altercations, leading to enhanc
Bern's homeless shelters now require identification, severely impacting Sans-Papiers. This policy sparks debate on human rights and legal residency, with experts warning of dire consequences for vulne
A woman in Bern stole a Maestro card from an apartment, spending over 200 francs in 30 minutes via contactless payments. She now faces significant fines and penalties for theft and fraudulent misuse.
Bernese police have arrested a 34-year-old man accused of exploiting 40 male sex workers from various countries since 2016, taking half their earnings.
Conflicts between clergy and church councils in Swiss Reformed churches are often prolonged due to strong legal protections for pastors. Mediation is now a key strategy for resolving these disputes am
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The mother of a 12-year-old key witness in a Bern murder trial is campaigning for legal reforms to better protect minors who testify in serious criminal cases.
A man in Köniz reported being threatened with a knife by three individuals, sparking concerns about public safety and the handling of repeat offenders. Police confirmed an intervention, but the victim
Bern's new winter night shelters will only allow individuals with valid residency permits, a policy supported by 1.3 million Swiss francs in cantonal funding. Foreign homeless individuals can only be
Bern's Nelson Pub has been fined 1,175 CHF for severe hygiene violations, including pests, dirty equipment, and expired food, following multiple inspections.
A Bern region pensioner has been fined 500 francs after his unleashed dog, known to react to children, bit a boy. This was the second reported incident involving the same animal, highlighting owner re
Switzerland's climate efforts are challenged by "grey emissions" from imported goods, which are double domestic output. A Bern conference on Oct 30, 2025, will explore legal and political solutions fo
A man sentenced to 20 years for murdering his wife in Kehrsatz is appealing his conviction. He remained silent during the Bern High Court hearing on Monday.
A bus driver received a significant fine from Bern authorities for operating a coach on the A1 without a valid license, visa, or work permit, including swapping places with a colleague to avoid police