Policy Disagreement

Should there be a complete separation of state and church in Switzerland?

3 reading minutes
written by Pablo Sánchez · 19 November 2025 · 0 comment

Religious education, public funding of churches, crucifixes in classrooms and parliaments... In Switzerland, the boundary between faith and state remains fluid, depending on the canton. Should there be a clear dividing line between state and church?

Cilette Cretton

Feminist activist and former member of the Valais parliament

Yes. For me, as a Valaisan, this question brings to mind the Middle Ages. In those days, my canton was governed by prince-bishops who exercised both temporal and spiritual powers. Closer to home, it evokes Islamic states and other unenviable models. In the 19th century, Switzerland adopted a constitution guaranteeing freedom of conscience and belief for all citizens. In order to apply this right, the state must respect neutrality and independence in relation to

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