Lewd remarks by worker not sufficient for sacking, say judges

Monday, 12 January 2026 06:30

The Federal Supreme Court has overturned the dismissal of a senior civil servant accused of making sexually inappropriate remarks to a colleague.

The man was fired in 2023 after comments made to a receptionist, including a remark suggesting she come to work naked.

But the court ruled the sanction was too severe, noting there had been no prior warning.

While it said disciplinary action was still justified, it opposed outright dismissal.

The canton must now repay the official’s salary, including two years of back pay, and consider his possible reassignment to another department.

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