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Outdoor pool polemic: Switzerland prefers locals – Germans excluded!
Berlin discusses current problems in outdoor swimming pools, shares experiences with a Swiss entry ban and sheds light on possible discrimination.
Outdoor pool polemic: Switzerland prefers locals – Germans excluded!
In Porrentruy, a charming town in Switzerland, a controversial regulation has been established at the local outdoor swimming pool since July 4, 2025. Access will now only be granted to Swiss citizens, a measure that will apply until August 31, 2025. This decision was made due to problems with foreign bathers, particularly from France, who have behaved inappropriately in the past. Mayor Philippe Eggertswyler reported that over twenty people were banned from entry due to rudeness and non-compliance with the rules. According to the media, this regulation aims to maintain a respectful atmosphere in the outdoor pool and minimize safety problems.
The discussion about the new access restrictions is characterized by different opinions. While some bathers appreciate the greater peace and tranquility at the facility, others see the measures as discriminatory and racist. The Socialist Youth Jura in particular criticizes the ban as systematic racism and demands unrestricted access for everyone. National Councilor Tamara Funicicello also emphasizes that harassment should be punished regardless of the person's origin. The regulation is supported by the right-wing populist Swiss People's Party (SVP), which sees it as an answer to a supposed nationwide problem.
Rules and exceptions for bathers
In Porrentruy, non-Swiss people must present a special access card, which they can only obtain with a hotel or campsite booking in the region. The outdoor swimming pool in Porrentruy is not the only one struggling with difficulties. Measures have also been taken in other regions, such as Lucerne, to increase security. If there is high occupancy, groups of six or more people are no longer allowed entry. These rules are intended not only to ensure proper procedures in the outdoor pool, but also to ensure the safety of bathers, as foreign guests are often not sufficiently informed about swimming in deeper waters.
If you look beyond the borders of Switzerland, you can see that problems with attacks and unwanted behavior also prevail in German outdoor pools, such as Berlin's Prinzenbad and Columbiabad. Media reports concerns about security have led to ID checks at spas in Berlin, where a significant portion of the population in districts such as Kreuzberg and Neukölln is of non-German origin. The possible discriminatory effect of such a regulation is being discussed here, which would specifically allow German guests to enter.
It remains to be seen how the situation in Porrentruy and elsewhere develops. The debate about the balance between safety and equality in public spaces is in full swing and shows that in many bathing establishments, not only recreation but also social issues are at stake.