Canton of Bern wants to take action against hate crime
The Bern cantonal police have launched an initiative to combat hate crime. In particular, it wants to tackle the increasing number of crimes committed for anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim motives.
"Wars and conflicts are shaping the world view, and we are also feeling this in the canton of Bern," said FDP Security Director Philippe Müller to the media on Tuesday. Anti-Semitic incidents and related inquiries have increased since the Hamas terrorist attack on Israel and the flare-up of the Middle East conflict. There have also been incidents against Muslims in recent months.
The cantonal police did not provide specific figures, but a sharp increase has been noticeable since October 7, 2023. Reports have since stagnated "at a high level", said Michael Fichter, Head of Prevention at the cantonal police.
Schools receive support
To counteract this development, the cantonal police have stepped up their existing prevention work and launched a campaign called "Together against hate". Around 30 religious communities, authorities, educational institutions and other organizations are taking part.
In this context, schools would also be provided with additional teaching materials. The aim is for them to increasingly discuss measures against hate with pupils.
The Bern cantonal police have been recording hate crimes statistically since last year. In 2023, a total of 55 reports were received, primarily involving verbal abuse, threats, assault and simple bodily harm. Hate crimes are criminal offenses in which people are attacked because they belong to a social group. (SDA/swi)
