A petition calling for Switzerland to recognize Palestine as an independent state has been formally submitted to the Swiss government and parliament in Bern. The initiative, spearheaded by Zurich-based writer Thomas Meyer, gathered 13,750 signatures. Proponents argue that recognition is a critical step towards a lasting peace in the Middle East.
Key Takeaways
- A petition with 13,750 signatures urges Switzerland to recognize Palestine.
- Zurich writer Thomas Meyer initiated the petition.
- Meyer states that Palestinians deserve their own state, similar to the Jewish people.
- The petition emphasizes a two-state solution for regional peace.
- Switzerland's humanitarian tradition should guide its decision, according to advocates.
Petition Handed Over in Bern
The petition, titled "Switzerland Must Also Recognize Palestine," was delivered to Swiss federal authorities on September 23, 2025. Thomas Meyer confirmed the submission of the signatures to the news agency Keystone-SDA. He explained that the campaign began over a year ago, initially collecting only a few hundred signatures.
Meyer noted a significant increase in support during a second push, which occurred amid a period of heightened conflict and numerous casualties in the region. This surge in signatures highlighted growing public sentiment on the issue.
Petition Details
- Signatures Collected: 13,750
- Initiator: Thomas Meyer, Zurich writer
- Date Submitted: September 23, 2025
- Recipient: Swiss Government and Parliament
Meyer's Rationale for Recognition
Thomas Meyer, who is Jewish, articulated his reasons for launching the petition. He drew parallels between the historical struggles of the Jewish people and the current situation of Palestinians.
"We Jews had to wait a long time for our own state and shed much blood in the process. For the same reasons, it is now time for the Palestinians to also receive their state," Meyer stated in a media release.
His argument centers on the principle of self-determination and the belief that both peoples deserve to live in their own sovereign nations. This perspective forms the core of the petition's appeal to Swiss authorities.
The Two-State Solution as a Path to Peace
The petition asserts that a two-state solution is the only viable path to achieving lasting peace and stability in the Middle East. This framework involves the establishment of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel.
Advocates argue that Switzerland, known for its humanitarian traditions and neutrality, has a moral obligation to support this outcome by formally recognizing Palestine. Such an act, they believe, would align with Switzerland's long-standing commitment to international law and human rights.
Background on Two-State Solution
The two-state solution is a widely discussed framework for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It proposes two independent states: Israel and Palestine. The goal is to provide security and self-determination for both Israelis and Palestinians. International efforts have often focused on achieving this outcome through negotiations.
International Context and Swiss Position
The debate over Palestinian statehood is not unique to Switzerland. Several G7 nations have recently announced plans to officially recognize a Palestinian state. These announcements came ahead of the UN General Debate, indicating a shifting international landscape on the issue.
However, this move has drawn strong reactions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described such recognitions as a "reward for terror." This highlights the deep divisions and complexities surrounding the matter on the global stage.
Swiss Parliament's Stance
Domestically, the Swiss Parliament has shown caution regarding immediate recognition. On September 9, 2025, the Council of States (Ständerat) voted against the immediate recognition of a Palestinian state by Switzerland. Lawmakers also debated potential sanctions against Israeli settlers, reflecting ongoing discussions about the conflict's various dimensions.
Switzerland has also publicly criticized Israeli settlement plans. On August 18, 2025, Switzerland condemned Israel's finance minister's proposal to construct approximately 3,400 new housing units in the West Bank. Switzerland views such projects as violations of international law.
Recent Developments
- G7 Nations: Some have announced plans to recognize Palestine.
- Israeli Reaction: Prime Minister Netanyahu called it a "reward for terror."
- Swiss Council of States: Voted against immediate recognition on September 9, 2025.
- Swiss Criticism: Condemned new Israeli housing units in the West Bank on August 18, 2025.
The Role of Humanitarian Tradition
The petition specifically invokes Switzerland's long-standing humanitarian tradition. This tradition is a cornerstone of Swiss foreign policy and is often cited in calls for the country to take a more active role in international humanitarian issues.
By recognizing Palestine, proponents argue, Switzerland would uphold its values and contribute to a more just resolution of the conflict. The petition suggests that such an act would reaffirm Switzerland's commitment to peace and human dignity.
Looking Ahead
The submission of this petition marks a significant moment in the ongoing discussion about Switzerland's foreign policy regarding the Middle East. With 13,750 signatures, it represents a notable expression of public opinion.
The Swiss government and parliament will now consider the petition. Their decision will reflect a balance of international diplomatic considerations, domestic political viewpoints, and Switzerland's historical role as a neutral, humanitarian nation.