We are committed to tolerance, respect and peaceful coexistence. Together we send a signal against hatred, violence and discrimination – for diversity in the canton of Bern.
Together with more than 30 religious communities, independent organizations, authorities, educational institutions and other partners, the Berne Cantonal Police launched the initiative “Together against Hate”. The aim is to tackle this issue resolutely and with broad support, in order to unambiguously mobilize against hatred in all its forms. It is about promoting diversity in the canton of Bern and encouraging citizens to commit to tolerance, respect and peaceful cohabitation.
Current measures of the Berne Cantonal Police against hatred
The Berne Cantonal Police has been fighting against hatred and discrimination for several years now. It acts both in terms of prevention and awareness-raising and encourages collaboration and dialogue with different actors in society. Among its measures, we can cite in particular the development of information materials, internal training for its employees as well as participation in interdisciplinary professional events and networks. Through a first initiative, the Berne Cantonal Police launched various actions in 2023 which focused on LGBTIQ communities. Today, it is strengthening prevention thanks to new measures and a clear message against hatred. This year, the angle of approach is that of religious affiliation and origin.
Material
In collaboration with the initiative partners, the Berne Cantonal Police has developed materials that can be downloaded and printed in the desired format. It is also possible to order paper copies.
In collaboration with the University of Teacher Education, the Department of Public Education and Culture as well as the School and Teaching Research Department of the Institute of Educational Sciences of the University of Bern, the Berne Cantonal Police has drawn up recommendations for schools (Brochure “The Challenge of Discrimination in the Education Sector”). These recommendations help prepare for possible incidents and illustrate the possibilities for acting in the face of cases of hatred, violence and discrimination. The document additionally contains information on the current legal situation, specialist and advisory services as well as situation examples accompanied by a legal assessment.
Initiative partners
Religious communities
Muslim Association of Bern
Bahá’ís of Switzerland
Bern Debre Amin Abune Teklehaimanot Church
Jewish Community Bienne
Swiss Mennonite Conference
Umbrella organization of free churches and Christian communities in Switzerland
Catholic-Christian Church of the canton of Bern
National Roman Catholic Church of the canton of Bern
Reformed churches Bern-Jura-Solothurn
Evangelical Lutheran Church Bern
Swiss Federation of Jewish Communities
Alevi Culture Support Association
Inter-Buddhist Association in the House of Religions
Islamic Cantonal Association of Bern
Jewish Community of Bern
Romanian Orthodox Church Bern
Serbian Orthodox parish in Bern
Church Association in the House of Religions
Saivanerikoodam Association
Center for Buddhism
Independent organizations, authorities and partners
Professional Association of School Management Bern
Office of Ecclesiastical and Religious Affairs
Directorate of Public Education and Culture
Radicalization and Violence Prevention Department of the City of Bern
gggfon – let’s act together against violence and racism
House of Religions – Dialogue of Cultures
Bern University of Education
University of Bern, Institute for Educational Science
Bern School Social Work Association
Bern Day Schools Association
