Cross-border workers in Ticino: 'We feel like criminals'
Anthropologist Lederrey denounces federal asylum centers in Ticino. The SEM responds.
Contesto
In brief - Complaint about Federal Asylum Centers in Ticino - Testimonies from Pasture and Chiasso - The SEM defends the structure ## Key facts - What: Complaint about treatment in Federal Asylum Centers - When: April 29, 2026 - Where: Pasture, Chiasso, Ticino - Who: Anthropologist Lederrey, SEM - Amount: Not specified Anthropologist Lederrey has denounced the inhuman conditions in the Federal Asylum Centers in Ticino, particularly in Pasture and Chiasso. According to her analysis, the current system is designed to make asylum seekers feel like criminals. The testimonies collected confirm this perception, describing a hostile and humiliating environment. However, the SEM has responded by stating that the structure in Pasture fully complies with its institutional duties. ### Testimonies from the Centers The testimonies collected by Lederrey describe an environment where asylum seekers feel constantly monitored and humiliated. One example cited is the lack of privacy during registration and identification procedures. These elements contribute to creating a climate of mistrust and anxiety among asylum seekers. > "We feel like we're in prison, not in a reception center." In Pasture, for example, asylum seekers have to deal with long waits for bureaucratic procedures, often without adequate language support. In Chiasso, on the other hand, hygiene conditions have been criticized, with reports of overcrowding and lack of access to basic health services. According to 2025 data, the center in Pasture hosts around 200 asylum seekers, with an occupancy rate of 95%. ### The SEM's Response The SEM has responded to the accusations by emphasizing that the structure in Pasture is in compliance with current regulations and that all procedures are aimed at ensuring security and pub...
Dettagli operativi
Analysis of Reception Conditions The reception conditions in the federal asylum centers in Ticino have been at the center of numerous criticisms in recent years. Lederrey's complaints are not isolated and reflect a worrying trend. The testimonies collected describe an environment in which asylum seekers are constantly under surveillance, with significant limitations on their freedom of movement and privacy. For example, at the Chiasso Reception Center, opened in 2018 with a capacity of 120 places, asylum seekers must sign a register every time they enter or leave the center, with predetermined hours. Furthermore, medical visits are limited to twice a week, which can delay the diagnosis and treatment of urgent medical conditions. According to a 2022 report, 60% of asylum seekers in Ticino reported difficulties in accessing medical care. ### Comparisons with Other Regions Unlike other Swiss regions, Ticino has a more rigid tradition of reception. This approach could be linked to the geographical position of the canton, which borders Italy and is therefore considered a strategic entry point for migrants. However, it is important that local authorities work to improve reception conditions, in line with international standards. For example, in the Canton of Vaud, asylum seekers can benefit from a more flexible reception system, with the possibility of living in private apartments after the first three months. Furthermore, the Canton of Vaud has introduced an integration program that includes language courses and professional training, with an annual budget of 5 million Swiss francs. In comparison, Ticino spends only 2 million Swiss francs a year on the integration of asylum seekers, with less effective results. ### Future Scenarios If reception conditions do not improve,...
Punti chiave
What to Do If You Witness Abuse If you witness abuse or unfair treatment in the federal asylum centers in Ticino, it is crucial to act promptly. The State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) has set up a toll-free number, 800 007 007, available 24/7, to report violations. Additionally, non-governmental organizations such as the Swiss Red Cross and the Association for Human Rights (ADH) offer support and assistance. ### Procedure to Report Abuse 1. Contact the SEM toll-free number: Provide precise details about the incident, including names, dates, locations, and accurate descriptions. For example, in 2022, 120 violations were reported in the reception centers of Chiasso and Lugano. 2. Document the evidence: Photos, videos, and written testimonies can be crucial. In 2021, a report in Massagno led to an investigation after the presentation of videos showing inappropriate treatment. 3. Contact non-governmental organizations: For instance, the Swiss Red Cross offers legal and psychological support. 4. Consult the regulations: The Federal Law on Foreign Nationals (LEStr) of December 16, 2005, and the Asylum Ordinance (OAso) of October 22, 2014, regulate the rights and duties of asylum seekers. ### Useful Tools For further information, the salary calculator can help compare working conditions in Ticino and Italy. For example, a gross salary of 4,000 CHF in Ticino is approximately 3,700 EUR in Italy, with significant differences in taxes and pension contributions. ### Operational Checklist - Immediate reporting: Contact the SEM toll-free number. - Documentation: Collect photographic and video evidence. - Legal support: Consult non-governmental organizations. - Regulatory knowledge: Familiarize yourself with LESTr and OAso. ### Comparison of Practical Scenarios - Scenario...
Punti chiave
[{"q":"What are the rights of asylum seekers in Ticino?","a":"Asylum seekers in Ticino are entitled to dignified and respectful treatment, in line with international standards. However, current conditions in federal asylum centers have been criticized for lack of privacy and constant surveillance."},{"q":"How can I report an abuse in a federal asylum center?","a":"You can report abuse by contacting the SEM hotline or reaching out to non-governmental organizations operating in the reception sector. It's important to document any evidence that can support the report."},{"q":"What are the implications for cross-border workers in Ticino?","a":"The perception of an unfair and inhuman system could negatively impact the social and work climate in the region. It's important that cantonal and federal authorities take these complaints seriously and work to improve reception conditions."}]
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the rights of asylum seekers in Ticino?
- Asylum seekers in Ticino are entitled to dignified and respectful treatment, in line with international standards. However, current conditions in federal asylum centers have been criticized for lack of privacy and constant surveillance.
- How can I report an abuse in a federal asylum center?
- You can report abuse by contacting the SEM hotline or reaching out to non-governmental organizations operating in the reception sector. It's important to document any evidence that can support the report.
- What are the implications for cross-border workers in Ticino?
- The perception of an unfair and inhuman system could negatively impact the social and work climate in the region. It's important that cantonal and federal authorities take these complaints seriously and work to improve reception conditions.