Public Policy
Liam Carter is a public policy correspondent for Bern News Today, specializing in government accountability, regulatory affairs, and the oversight of non-profit organizations. He reports on consumer protection issues and the use of public funds.
20 published articles
Four incumbent Bern government members – Evi Allemann, Philippe Müller, Pierre Alain Schnegg, and Astrid Bärtschi – are seeking re-election on March 29, each facing scrutiny over their past performanc
Bern faces a critical debate over its domestic violence strategy as left-wing parties push for more funding and resources amid rising cases. The government proposes merging services for efficiency, wh
Bern's Dählhölzli Zoo faces a transformative public vote in June on extensive renovation plans. The City Council approved proposals for new facilities, including a main entrance and family zoo, aimed
Bern experiences a swift transition to spring with temperatures reaching 17 degrees Celsius and widespread flower blooms, just days after heavy snowfall and winter disruptions.
An Eurocity train from Basel to Milan became stranded in Switzerland's Murgenthal Tunnel due to a vehicle malfunction, causing two-hour delays and rerouting other services.
Bern Animal Park is culling older animals to make space for breeding programs, a controversial move aimed at species protection amid aging zoo populations. Animal rights groups criticize the practice.
The Green Party faces a significant leadership transition as Aline Trede and Balthasar Glättli consider leaving federal roles for cantonal and city governments. This shift could impact the party's par
A teacher in Fraubrunnen will keep his job despite an eight-week UK jail sentence for football violence. Authorities cited his good record and remorse.
A growing wage gap between federal employees in Bern and private sector workers is fueling a national debate, with data showing public salaries rising 1.5-4% annually.
Bern's Cantonal Parliament will debate public transport expansion in March, including adding services to regional lines and a contentious renovation of Tram Line 6.
The Swiss Federal Council plans to reduce administrative burdens for farmers to boost food security and sustainability. New policies include results-oriented direct payments and increased milk price s
Two empty SBB double-decker trains collided at Bern station, causing damage and minor service disruptions. No injuries were reported, but several wheels derailed, blocking a track and leading to some
Bern residents will vote on March 8 on a 22.3 million franc renovation for the historic Lorrainebad. The project aims to repair structural damage, reconnect the pool to the Aare River, and modernize f
Bern Canton reveals election campaign finances for the first time, showing over 3.5 million Swiss Francs spent. Conservative parties receive large donations from associations, while the Socialist Part
Bern's city administration is engaging residents, including children, to plan the future of the Allmend areas. These vital green spaces face pressure from development and diverse interests.
Regionalverkehr Bern-Solothurn (RBS) saw passenger numbers rise over five percent in 2025, reaching 26 million. Bus services hit a record 8.4 million passengers, while train ridership neared pre-pande
Bern is hosting an Anti-Valentine's Day pub quiz to raise awareness about relationship violence and critically examine romantic traditions. This initiative, part of a national campaign, aims to streng
Bern's Federal Administration is modernizing its Bundesgasse 32 building, creating 240 flexible workspaces for the Federal Chancellery. The 27.3 million CHF project starts in 2027, balancing historica
Bern City Council proposes new rules for tour buses, including mandatory online parking reservations outside the city center and designated drop-off points, aiming to reduce congestion and improve vis
Bern Canton lawmakers are pushing for individual prosecution of fan violence, moving away from collective punishments. The proposal includes a specialized police unit and faster legal procedures to ad
