“Stalking” will be included in the Swiss penal code

(Keystone-ATS) “Stalking” causes psychological, physical and economic damage, noted for the commission Céline Vara (Vert-es/NE). The phenomenon has grown in recent years, particularly because of social networks. Children, adolescents, but also women see their lives “rotting”, according to the Neuchâteloise.

The Federal Council also pleaded in favor of the project. However, Justice Minister Beat Jans warned against setting expectations too high. He also raised challenges in implementing the new standard.

“Useless” project

Pirmin Schwander (UDC/SZ) was opposed, denouncing too broad a formulation. He doubted the effect of the new offense.

Daniel Jositsch (PS/ZH) considered that the project was unnecessary, invoking existing civil law instruments. He would have preferred these to be reinforced instead of a criminal complaint being possible. It takes months, and in the end, the perpetrator of the harassment only gets away with a monetary penalty, according to the Zurich resident.

According to the draft commission from the National, “stalking” must be punished with a custodial sentence of no more than three years or a monetary penalty. Mr Jositsch doubted whether a prison sentence would be imposed.

Technical differences on matters of wording remain. The file goes back to National.