Good Morning! It’s a lovely and bright start to Tuesday for much of Switzerland as typical early spring conditions set in, with temperatures gradually rising across the regions. Much of the global news today is dominated by politics – mostly the ongoing bust-up between Donald Trump and Zelenskyy, with the latest developments seeing Trump pause US military aid to Kyiv. US stock markets have tanked following the start of US tariffs on Canada and Mexico.
Much of the news coming from Switzerland this morning is looking at the growing gap between men and women – politically, economically and more. The news is dominated by a recent report showing the rise of women being murdered by men in the country and the general increase in violence towards women.
Surge in Femicides in Switzerland
In 2025, feminist associations reported that eight women have already been victims of femicide in Switzerland, reflecting a troubling trend compared to previous years. In 2024, 19 women were reported murdered by men in the country. The increase in violence against women has prompted outcries for more effective prevention strategies and support.
Organizations are demanding the Swiss government allocate 350 million francs to enhance safety measures and resources aimed at preventing male violence against women.
Controversy Over Terminology
The term “feminicide” remains a point of contention in Swiss law. Authorities, including those in Valais, refrain from using the term due to legal definitions, labeling cases instead as “tragic deaths.” This practice leads to a discrepancy between reported incidents and recognized feminicides, raising concerns among advocates.
Feminist groups argue for the necessary use of terms that reflect the reality of gender-based violence. They contend that clearer communication can help bring visibility to these cases, ultimately driving efforts to combat such violence.
Overwhelmed Support Services
Swiss reception centers for victims of domestic violence are experiencing unprecedented demand, often operating at full capacity. Mallepirie reception center director Philippe Bigler explained that their facilities, intended for a maximum occupancy of 75%, regularly reach 97% occupancy.
In the past two years, dozens of women have been unable to access immediate emergency accommodation, highlighting a critical gap in support for victims. These centers play a vital role in providing safety during volatile periods, particularly post-separation when the risk of violence escalates.
Calls for Urgent Funding
In response to the rising number of feminicide cases, various feminist associations have launched an online petition urging the Swiss government to unlock 350 million francs for women’s safety. The collective, which includes organizations like Brava and Campax, emphasizes the need for immediate action and resources to address the crisis.
Julia Meier of Brava stated that the Federal Council must prioritize this issue, advocating for sufficient funding to support prevention efforts and ensure safety for women facing violence.
A Need for Systematic Change
The demand for improved legal and protective measures against feminicides raises questions about the efficacy of Switzerland’s current framework addressing violence against women. Advocates are calling for a cohesive strategy that includes both immediate relief for victims and long-term solutions to prevent violence.
The systemic issues contributing to violence against women necessitate comprehensive reforms, including heightened awareness, better funding for support services, and a legal recognition of feminicide as a distinct category of crime.
