People are Switzerland In a country known for its culture of compromise, after a campaign characterized by unprecedented hostility, the Covid vaccine certification law is being voted on.
As in many Europe, Switzerland is increasingly angry about the restrictive measures aimed at controlling the pandemic and the pressure to vaccinate.
But in a country that holds a referendum every few months, in an atmosphere of civilized and controlled debate, the sharp rise in the tension surrounding the vote is shocking. The police have strengthened security for several politicians who have faced numerous insults and death threats.
Voting ends at noon on Sunday (11 am GMT), and the results are expected to be announced in the next few hours, as the vast majority of people vote by mail before the polling day.
Voters are deciding whether to approve the amendment to the Covid law, which includes providing a legal basis for the Covid certificate, which indicates whether a person has been vaccinated or has recovered from the virus.
Opponents say that since September, access to restaurants and other indoor spaces and activities must obtain the certificate, which is creating a system of “apartheid”.
The final opinion poll showed that about two-thirds of voters supported the Covid law.
On Sunday, the police blocked the square in front of the Berne government and parliament, and protests are expected as a result.
Observers warn that the vote may increase tensions, and if the result is not good for them, it may even trigger strong opposition from the anti-vaccine crowd.
During the movement, fences were erected around the buildings to protect them during anti-vax demonstrations.
They are usually led by “Freiheitstrychler” or “Freedom ringers”-they are dressed in white shirts embroidered with edelweiss, and on their shoulders are two large cowbells hanging from a yoke.
Some demonstrations led to violent clashes with the police, who used rubber bullets and tear gas to control the crowd.
Referendum is the new Covid-19 variant Omron, First discovered in Southern Africa and classified as a variant of concern, has shocked countries and markets around the world.
This is the second time in less than six months that Swiss have been asked to vote on the government’s measures to deal with the pandemic. In June, 60% of voters agreed to extend the national measures.
