Switzerland votes in a referendum on new law against homophobia

Switzerland votes in a referendum yesterday on a new law against homophobia that is opposed by the populist rightwing Swiss People's Party (SVP).

 

The new law would widen existing legislation against discrimination or incitement to hatred on ethnic or religious grounds to include sexual



orientation.

The change was passed by the Swiss parliament in 2018 but critics, who believe it will end up censoring free speech, have forced a referendum on the issue.

Polls close at 1100 GMT and results are expected on the same day.