Swiss voters approve a controversial proposal to ban Muslim minarets
Constanze TressNovember 29, 2009
In a controversial referendum, Swiss voters have approved a right-wing proposal to ban the construction of new minarets in their country. The result could seriously damage Switzerland´s diplomatic and economic ties with Muslim countries. It´s also a severe embarrassment for the government. It had urged voters to reject the initiative, saying it violates both religious freedom and the country´s tradition of tolerance.