Equality of LGBTIQ persons
In Switzerland, the equality of LGBTIQ persons before the law has improved in recent years: The scope of penal provisions against discrimination and incitement to hatred on grounds of sexual orientation has been extended, and it has become easier to register a different gender at the civil registry office, and marriage for same-sex couples has been introduced. Nevertheless, LGBTIQ persons continue to face disadvantages in different areas of life.
Switzerland is committed to combating discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and sexual characteristics. This aligns with its domestic and foreign policy commitment to strengthening human rights.
Since 2024, the Federal Office for Gender Equality (FOGE) has been responsible for all matters relating to equality for LGBTIQ people at the federal level.
In this role, the office addresses specific parliamentary mandates and coordinates cooperation with other federal offices dealing with LGBTIQ issues. It also maintains contact with the cantons and communes that are actively addressing these issues and promotes dialogue with specialized and non-governmental organizations. One of its primary tasks is to develop a national action plan against LGBTIQ-hostile hate crimes, as called for by the Barrile postulate (20.3820).
Press release: LGBTI issues to be attached to the Office for Gender Equality from 2024 onwards
More information on the LGBTIQ theme will be published shortly.