Cross-border workers in Ticino: 'We feel like criminals'

Context

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 public order. However, the SEM has also announced an internal investigation to assess possible improvements in reception conditions.

Implications for Cross-Border Workers

This situation could have repercussions for cross-border workers who work in Ticino. The perception of an unfair and inhuman system could negatively influence the social and work climate in the region. It is important that the cantonal and federal authorities take these complaints seriously and work to improve reception conditions.

Operational Checklist for Cross-Border Workers

• Check Regulations: Ensure you know the current regulations regarding asylum and immigration.
• Language Support: Offer language support to asylum seekers to facilitate bureaucratic procedures.
• Hygiene Conditions: Ensure adequate hygiene conditions in reception centers.
• Access to Health Services: Ensure access to basic health services for all asylum seekers.

Comparison of Practical Scenarios

• Current Scenario: Long waits, lack of privacy, insufficient hygiene conditions.
• Ideal Scenario: Streamlined procedures, respect for privacy, adequate hygiene conditions, access to health services.

Regulations and Key Dates

• Federal Law on Foreign Nationals (LEStr): Came into force on January 1, 2008.
• Bilateral Agreement on Asylum (Dublin III): Ratified by Switzerland in 2014.
• SEM Directives: Last updated in 2023.

Concrete Examples

• Pasture: Reception center with a capacity of 200 places, 95% occupancy rate.
• Chiasso: Reception center with reports of overcrowding and insufficient hygiene conditions.

Conclusion

The situation in the reception centers in Ticino requires urgent attention from the authorities. Complaints about inhuman conditions and the perception of an unfair system cannot be ignored. It is fundamental to work to improve reception conditions and ensure dignified treatment for all asylum seekers.

Operational details

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, it is likely that complaints and criticisms will continue to grow. This could have a negative impact on Ticino's image as a welcoming and open region. It is essential that the cantonal and federal authorities take concrete measures to improve reception conditions and ensure the respect of the fundamental rights of asylum seekers.

An operational checklist to improve reception conditions could include:

• Increasing the number of weekly medical visits to four.
• Introducing a more flexible registration system for the movements of asylum seekers.
• Creating integration programs with an adequate budget.
• Providing access to language courses and professional training.

If these measures are not implemented, Ticino risks seeing an increase in complaints and criticisms, with a negative impact on its reputation and the quality of life of asylum seekers.

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Key points

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 1: A cross-border worker from Mendrisio reports abuse in the reception center of Balerna. The SEM initiates an investigation within 48 hours.
• Scenario 2: A witness in Lugano documents unfair treatment and contacts the Swiss Red Cross, which provides legal assistance.

"Prompt reporting is crucial to ensure the protection of fundamental rights." - ADH

Regulations and Amounts

• LEStr: Article 79 regulates the conditions of reception.
• OAso: Article 32 specifies the reporting procedures.
• Amounts: Fines for violations can amount to up to 20,000 CHF, as stipulated in Article 116 of LESTr.

Conclusion

Acting promptly and accurately documenting violations is essential to protect the rights of asylum seekers. Using tools like the salary calculator and consulting the regulations can provide a clear picture of working and reception conditions in Ticino.

Source: laregione.ch