(Swiss Info) The government plans to earmark CHF500,000 ($503,000) annually to improve protection of minorities, notably the Jewish and the Muslim communities in Switzerland, from terrorist attacks.
The funds are to be used to finance education and awareness, as well as other preventive measures, according to a statement published on Wednesday. The move comes in response to calls made by parliament earlier this year.
The government will cover half the cost of the programme, with cantons, municipalities and third parties contributing the rest. However, the money must not be spent on security measures on the ground, as there is no legal basis for this.
The justice ministry has been mandated to present a draft regulation for consultation before the end of the year. It will also examine a legal amendment.
