A significant debate is underway in the Canton of Bern regarding the policy of the Bern Cantonal Police. The police currently do not actively disclose the nationalities of suspected offenders in their public statements. This practice has led to calls for greater transparency from some political parties, while others warn against potential stigmatization.
Key Takeaways
- Bern Cantonal Police does not actively publish suspect nationalities.
- FDP and SVP parties demand more transparency.
- GLP, SP, and Green parties oppose disclosure due to stigmatization concerns.
- A parliamentary initiative seeks a nationwide rule on this issue.
- Police disclose nationality only for specific serious crimes or upon media request.
Bern Police Policy on Nationality Disclosure
The Bern Cantonal Police maintains a policy of not actively disclosing the nationalities of suspected offenders in media releases. This approach aligns with directives from the cantonal government. However, the police confirm that this information is generally provided to journalists upon specific request.
An exception to this rule applies to cases involving homicides or fatal accidents. In these serious incidents, the nationality of the individuals involved is published. This is done because, according to police, these cases are numerically manageable, allowing for complete and accurate communication.
Fact Check
The overall picture of crime statistics, including data on nationalities, is released annually through the official police crime statistics. This comprehensive report is typically published each spring.
Calls for Increased Transparency from Right-Wing Parties
The SVP (Swiss People's Party) of the Canton of Bern strongly advocates for a change in the police's current practice. The party believes that transparency should be the top priority. They argue that since the data on nationalities is already collected, it should be made public in police media releases.
"For us, transparency is paramount. Since the data is available, the Cantonal Police should also name the nationality when sending out media releases. There is no need for a nationwide regulation or any waiting. It is enough for the Cantonal Police to simply adjust its practice," stated Aliki M. Panayides, Managing Director of SVP Canton Bern.
The FDP (Liberal-Radical Party) also supports greater transparency. Carlos Reinhard, FDP faction leader in the Grand Council of Bern, emphasized the importance of providing all relevant details, especially during manhunts.
Reinhard suggested that details like skin color or a possible accent should be shared to aid in identification. He also believes that for transparency reasons, the police should disclose the nationalities of arrested individuals in their media communications.
Concerns Over Stigmatization from Left-Leaning Parties
Conversely, parties on the left of the political spectrum argue against mandatory disclosure of nationalities. They warn that such a practice could lead to discrimination and stigmatization of certain groups.
Marianne Schild, a GLP (Green Liberal Party) Grand Councillor, supports the current approach taken by the police, public prosecutor's office, and courts in Bern. She believes it is not the role of the parliament to dictate the specific content of police communications.
"I believe the police, public prosecutor's office, and courts in the Canton of Bern do very well today. It is not the parliament's job to determine in detail what belongs in a press release," said Marianne Schild.
Schild pointed out that disclosing nationality could violate personal rights and create a stigmatizing effect. She stressed that authorities must balance public interest with the protection of individual rights.
Background Information
The debate in Bern is part of a broader national discussion. A parliamentary initiative at the federal level is currently seeking to mandate police forces across Switzerland to disclose the nationalities of suspected offenders in their communications. This national discussion highlights the varying approaches and concerns across different cantons.
Socialist and Green Party Positions
The SP (Social Democratic Party) of the Canton of Bern firmly rejects any obligation to disclose nationalities. Michael Aebersold, party secretary, stated the party's support for the existing police practice. They would oppose any national regulation that would prevent this approach.
Instead of focusing on nationality disclosure, the SP believes that urgent action is needed in other areas. They advocate for a ban on racial profiling and the creation of an independent complaints body for police actions. This would address concerns about fairness and accountability within law enforcement.
The Green Party also stands with the current Bernese police practice. Elisabeth Dubler, a Green Grand Councillor, argued that nationality is not a useful criterion for explaining crime. She believes that disclosing it only reinforces prejudices.
"Nationality is not a useful criterion to explain criminality; it only reinforces prejudices. It is important that Bern does not change its practice," emphasized Elisabeth Dubler.
The Greens stress the importance of maintaining Bern's current policy to avoid fostering stereotypes and biases within the community.
Ongoing National Debate and Future Outlook
The differing views between the political parties in Bern reflect a wider national discussion. While the SVP and FDP in Bern are pushing for changes at the cantonal level, the GLP, SP, and Green parties want to maintain the current status quo.
The outcome of the national parliamentary initiative remains uncertain. It is unclear whether a nationwide obligation to disclose nationalities will be introduced. However, the debate itself highlights complex issues surrounding transparency, data protection, and the potential for discrimination.
This discussion is expected to continue as policymakers and the public weigh the benefits of increased information against the risks of stigmatization and privacy concerns. The focus remains on finding a balanced approach that serves both public interest and individual rights.