Swiss authorities are now seizing assets from Muslim refugees entering the country. After absorbing thousands of migrants, the Northern European country is feeling overburdened and overwhelmed.
“Refugees arriving in Switzerland are reportedly required to hand over any assets that are worth over 1,000 Swiss francs ($1,000), to cover the costs of their accommodation,” reports Quartz. “Refugees who stay in Switzerland are asked to hand over 10% of their wages for up to 10 years.”
An information sheet recently handed to incoming refugees reads, “If you have property worth more than 1,000 Swiss francs when you arrive at a reception center you are required to give up these financial assets in return for a receipt.”
Denmark proposed similar measures to control the flow of migrants, but after leftist backlash, Danish government officials walked back some of the measures.
The UN high commission for refugees has criticized Nordic countries for protecting their borders and imposing stricter measures. Composed of primarily dictator-friendly Arab states and former communist superpowers, the UN panel is relying on Europe to shoulder the burden of Muslim refugees as opposed to holding neighboring Islamic countries responsible.
“Swiss law states that asylum-seeking refugees who have money have to contribute to the costs that they cause while being here. And that’s why we take their valuables away once they arrive in Switzerland.”.
Swiss government spokesman
Switzerland is not backing down on its efforts to disincentivize Muslim migrants from entering the country, however.
The new legislation passed with an overwhelming majority of votes in parliament. Government officials are even firing back against critics. “Swiss law states that asylum-seeking refugees who have money have to contribute to the costs that they cause while being here. And that’s why we take their valuables away once they arrive in Switzerland,” stated Lea Wertheimer, a Swiss government spokesman.