Swiss town votes against Muslim burial plots, stirring debate on religious inclusion

Residents of Weinfelden, a town in the Swiss canton of Thurgau, narrowly voted against a proposal to create dedicated Muslim burial plots in the local cemetery. The referendum, held on Sunday, saw 51.6% opposing the plan, overturning a previous municipal council decision to allocate 70 graves designed to meet Islamic burial requirements, such as alignment toward Mecca and prompt burial.

The vote, with 2,078 against and 1,947 in favor, revealed deep divisions within the community. Voter turnout stood at 53.9%. Critics of the decision argue it reflects growing resistance to accommodating Islamic practices, even in matters concerning death and dignity.

Observers have linked the outcome to a campaign led by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party, supported by the Egerkingen Committee, known for promoting bans on minarets and face coverings. The campaign distributed materials urging residents to vote “No,” framing the issue within a broader debate on cultural identity and national values.

Although Switzerland already has over 30 public cemeteries with designated Muslim sections, the Weinfelden result has raised questions about the country’s commitment to religious pluralism. Advocates for inclusion warn that denying burial rights according to religious tradition contradicts Switzerland’s constitutional values of dignity, equality, and freedom of belief.