Increased tensions at German/Swiss border

Heightened border checks between Germany and Switzerland are raising tensions.

Germany announced it will bring in more checks after a knife attack in the town of Solingen last month left three dead. 

Under a long-standing agreement, German police are allowed to operate in Switzerland, mainly between the two stations of Basel Badischer and Basel Main Station.

Germany is refusing access to hundreds of potential asylum seekers wishing to enter the country. As they are still in Switzerland – they become this country’s responsibility. 

A Basel State Councillor says the system needs to change. Petra Gössi says it’s shocking that migrants are intercepted on Swiss soil and then they must be dealt with by Swiss authorities. She says Bern needs to negotiate firmly with Berlin. 

 

 

More from Bitesize News

  • Economic outlook uncertain for this year

    Switzerland’s economic outlook remains cautious, with the KOF Swiss Economic Institute forecasting growth of around one percent in 2026,although that depends on falling oil prices.

  • Geneva bans the burkini

    Geneva’s parliament has voted to ban the burkini in public swimming pools, ending months of heated debate.

  • Birthday candles banned in Geneva schools

    In response to the fire in Crans Montana, birthday candles have been banned in Geneva’s primary schools.

  • Transit tax moves closer

    Switzerland is moving closer to introducing a transit tax for foreign vehicles crossing the country.

  • Fake Nyon officer fined

    A man in his fifties has been convicted in Vaud after impersonating a police officer in several towns, including Rolle and Nyon.

  • Heavy traffic this Easter

    Heavy traffic is expected across Switzerland over the Easter holiday period, particularly on the A2 Gotthard autoroute and the A13 San Bernardino route from March 27.

Download our app

  • Available on the App Store
  • Available on Google Play