The Canton of Zurich has tightened its police laws to grant law enforcement expanded powers, a move that mirrors similar considerations currently being explored in other cantons. The revision aims to provide authorities with modern instruments to combat evolving criminal threats.
Expanded Powers and Legislative Approval
At the end of March, the Kantonsrat approved the police law revision with a vote of 117 to 57. The measure was supported by a consolidated majority of center-right representatives.
Under the new rules, police may now investigate closed online forums, provided they obtain judicial approval. The revision establishes a clear legal framework for the exchange of data between various police forces and other government agencies.
These changes are intended to increase the efficiency of prevention and prosecution, specifically targeting terrorism, extremism, and crimes involving violence and sexual offenses.
The Debate Over Surveillance and Privacy
Supporters of the law argue that these updates are essential to keep pace with technological developments and new forms of crime, such as human trafficking and organized crime.
Security Director Mario Fehr, who is non-partisan, described the proposal as moderate. He noted that the cantonal data protection officer raised no objections to the changes.
However, critics warn that the law’s wording is too vague, potentially allowing the state to collect sensitive personal data—including political, religious, or ideological views—without a concrete suspicion of a crime.
Rahel Estermann, Co-Managing Director of the Digital Society, argued that such surveillance infringes upon the privacy of all residents, even those with no connection to criminal activity. She cautioned that a democratic society must not place its population under “general suspicion.”
Legal Precedents and Future Challenges
Concerns over expanded police powers are not new, as evidenced by a 2024 ruling by the Federal Court regarding a similar law in Lucerne. In that case, the court struck down several provisions, including the automated surveillance of vehicles and the systematic recording of license plates and passenger images.
The Federal Court also limited “predictive policing” in Lucerne, ruling that such systems can only be used with manual data entry. Automated AI analyses that independently recognize patterns and create forecasts were prohibited.
Zurich attorney Viktor Györffy, who represented the complaint in the Lucerne case, sees parallels between the two situations. He suggested that the Federal Court may eventually examine the Zurich law as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific new powers does the Zurich police have?
The police can now investigate closed online forums with judicial approval and have a legal basis for exchanging data with other police forces and authorities.
Why are critics concerned about the new law?
Critics argue the law is too vaguely phrased, which could lead to the collection of sensitive personal data—such as political or religious beliefs—without a specific suspicion of a crime.
How did the Federal Court’s ruling in Lucerne affect police technology?
The court banned automated vehicle surveillance and prohibited the use of AI for automated predictive policing that recognizes patterns and makes forecasts independently.
Do you believe the need for modern security tools justifies the potential reduction in personal privacy?
