Zurich’s Push for Inclusivity: A City at a Crossroads
Zurich is actively grappling with the complexities of inclusivity, as evidenced by a recent panel discussion held on February 3rd at the Amboss Rampe. The debate, focused on “What does Zurich need for an inclusive society?”, brought together political figures, civil society representatives, and individuals with lived experience to address critical issues of equality, accessibility, and social inclusion.
A Multifaceted Approach to Inclusion
The discussion highlighted the need to move beyond symbolic gestures and implement concrete, measurable actions. Candidates for the city council emphasized the importance of cross-party cooperation, framing inclusion as a fundamental right for all citizens. This sentiment underscores a growing recognition that a truly inclusive Zurich requires a unified and sustained effort.
Islam Alijaj, a National Council member and the first with a migration background and disability, stressed that inclusion must translate into tangible measures guaranteeing real and equal participation. This call for practical application resonates with the concerns of many within the city’s diverse population.
Breaking Down Barriers: Language and Accessibility
Kevin Rauch, a candidate for the municipal council and the first in Switzerland with cognitive impairment, brought a crucial perspective to the conversation: the importance of clear and accessible language. He pointed out that complex language creates unnecessary barriers for a significant portion of the population, hindering their ability to fully engage with administrative and political processes.
The discussion also touched upon the lack of affordable and accessible housing, as well as limitations in political participation for those without voting rights. These issues highlight the systemic challenges that prevent full inclusion for many residents.
PARANDALO’s Perspective: Recognition and Self-Determination
Valdete Hoti, President of the association PARANDALO, emphasized that inclusion begins with recognition and visibility. PARANDALO, a non-profit organization based in Zurich, supports individuals with migration backgrounds and disabilities, advocating for their active and equal participation in society. Hoti argued that these individuals should be seen as active contributors, not merely as “target groups.”
Central to PARANDALO’s approach is the concept of self-determination. Individuals must have genuine opportunities to produce decisions about their lives, education, work, and social and political involvement. An intersectional approach is vital, acknowledging that forms of discrimination often overlap, such as those based on origin and disability.
Data and the Path Forward
Statistical data underscores the urgency of this work. Approximately 34% of Zurich’s population has a foreign background, and around 9% live with some form of disability. These figures demonstrate that inclusion is not a niche issue but a central societal concern.
Achieving a truly inclusive Zurich requires sustained structural changes: power-sharing, opening access to opportunities, consistently addressing discrimination, and actively involving affected individuals in decision-making processes. Only through these steps can inclusion move from rhetoric to reality.
The Foundation of Inclusion: Education
Valdete Hoti concluded by emphasizing the critical role of inclusive education. Without fundamental reforms to the selective education system, equal opportunity will remain elusive. Education must provide space for all children and young people, regardless of their background, language, or abilities, to ensure that inclusion becomes a lived experience, not just a normative principle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PARANDALO? PARANDALO is a non-profit organization in Zurich that supports people with migration backgrounds and disabilities, promoting their inclusion in society.
Why is accessible language important? Accessible language removes barriers to participation for individuals with cognitive impairments or those who are not native speakers.
What are the key challenges to inclusion in Zurich? Challenges include a lack of affordable housing, limitations in political participation, and systemic discrimination.
What percentage of Zurich’s population is foreign-born? Approximately 34% of Zurich’s population is of foreign origin.
What is intersectionality in the context of inclusion? Intersectionality recognizes that different forms of discrimination (e.g., based on origin and disability) can overlap and create unique challenges.
