Injustice divides Switzerland: Justice Barometer provides insights
What do people in Switzerland think is unfair? A new study by the Beobachter shows: Many people are particularly bothered by the lack of deportation of foreign criminals. But economic development is also a source of discontent.
Focus on social tensions
The Beobachter's Justice Barometer, conducted for the first time in collaboration with Coop Rechtsschutz, provides insights into the subjective perception of injustice in Switzerland. 5,500 people aged 16 and over were surveyed. The results paint a differentiated picture: While a slight majority rate life in Switzerland as rather fair, one in eight people feel that the situation is "not fair at all". The asylum system and economic development were particularly criticized. Around half of those surveyed are bothered by the fact that foreigners who commit crimes are deported too rarely. Almost as many complain about the rising cost of living, with which wages are barely keeping pace.
Dwindling trust in the elite
The barometer also shows that trust in the state, politics and the economy is eroding. Many fear that the interests of the general public are no longer adequately represented by the elite. At the same time, the results shed light on a number of systematic injustices that are strongly influenced by individual perceptions and political attitudes. Political scientist Cloé Jans sums it up as follows: "We are living in polarized times, you can clearly see that."
Annual analysis planned
In order to continuously monitor social developments, the Justice Barometer will be conducted annually in future. The opinion research institute GFS Bern is responsible for the scientific implementation.
