Politics National Council wants to increase security around asylum centers with new rules

The National Council wants to take action following security incidents in and around federal asylum centers. It has enshrined various disciplinary measures in practice in law. In addition, the scope of application and the instruments available to the authorities are to be extended.

On Wednesday, the Grand Chamber voted in favor of various amendments to the Asylum Act by 104 votes to 87. These are intended to improve the safety of residents and employees in federal asylum centers.

The National Council approved all of the proposals and went further than the federal government on two points: the zone around the federal asylum centers is to be extended, allowing disciplinary measures to be taken against asylum seekers if their behaviour endangers public safety and order.

In addition, employees of the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) should also be able to confiscate electronic devices such as cell phones from asylum seekers to ensure security and order.

The bill now goes to the Council of States.

SDA