Junge Tat trial: Prosecutor asks for conviction, acquittal defense (cross-border guide)

Context

In brief

• Trial in Zurich for six members of 'Junge Tat'
• Charges of discrimination and incitement to hatred
• Prosecutor seeks prison sentences for main defendants

Key facts

• What: Trial for discrimination and incitement to hatred
• When: Today
• Where: Zurich
• Who: Six members of 'Junge Tat'
• Amount: Prison sentences requested

Today, six members of the far-right group 'Junge Tat' appeared before Zurich's justice system on charges of discrimination and incitement to hatred. During the hearing, the prosecutor requested prison sentences for the two main defendants, while the defense called for their acquittal. Outside the courthouse, about a hundred anti-fascist protesters gathered. The verdict will be pronounced only later.

This morning, the Public Prosecutor's Office requested a prison sentence of fifteen months, with six months to be served, against the two main defendants, Tobias Lingg (23) and Manuel Corchia (25). According to the prosecution, their actions exceeded the limits of freedom of expression. Both recidivists, they refused to answer the judge's questions.

In the afternoon, their defense lawyers instead asked for their clients to be acquitted of charges of discrimination, incitement to hatred, and violation of freedom of belief and worship. They invoked freedom of expression. According to Lingg's lawyer, the group's leader should only be sentenced to a conditional fine for minor offenses. For Corchia, complete acquittal was requested.

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Operational details

Practical Implications

The trial in Zurich against members of 'Junge Tat' raises important questions regarding freedom of expression and discrimination in Switzerland. The prosecution requested prison sentences for the two main defendants, Tobias Lingg and Manuel Corchia, while the defense invoked their acquittal, arguing that their actions fall within freedom of expression.

The group's actions, such as interrupting a Pride Mass and disrupting a children's reading, caused material and psychological damage. The prosecution assessed these actions as discrimination based on sexual orientation and violation of freedom of worship and religion.

The case highlights the tension between freedom of expression and the need to protect the rights of minorities. The final ruling of the Zurich District Court will be crucial in establishing the limits of freedom of expression in Switzerland.

Unauthorized Rooftop Actions

The court also examined several unauthorized actions taken on the roofs of various buildings. In November 2022, some members of the group had climbed onto the roof of the main building of the Basel train station, unfurled a banner with the words' Expel criminals' and lit smoke bombs. They had acted in a similar way in April 2024 in Winterthur (ZH), where a banner dedicated to the theme of repatriation had been hung on a building.

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Key points

Concrete actions

If you are interested in following the trial against the members of 'Junge Tat', you can check the websites of the Swiss judicial authorities for updates on the final judgment. In addition, you can participate in anti-fascist demonstrations to express your support for freedom of expression and the protection of minorities.

Useful tools

To deepen the implications of the process, you can use our salary calculator to better understand your finances and your rights in Switzerland. In addition, you can consult our guides on how to protect your rights and how to actively participate in the democratic life of the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if members of 'Junge Tat' are convicted?

If the members of 'Junge Tat' are convicted, the ruling will set limits on freedom of expression in Switzerland and strengthen the protection of minorities.

What are the implications of the process for Swiss society?

The trial raises important issues regarding freedom of expression and discrimination in Switzerland. The final ruling will be crucial in establishing the limits of freedom of expression in the country.

How can I actively participate in the democratic life of the country?

You can take part in anti-fascist demonstrations and consult our guides on how to protect your rights and how to actively participate in the democratic life of the country.

Source: swissinfo.ch