In certain Zurich municipalities, the term "density stress" is unfamiliar in the context of Badi, as they practice exclusion of foreign residents.
The summer of 2025 in Switzerland has been marked by a heated controversy, centred around a foreigner ban at a public pool in Pruntrut (also known as Porrentruy). From July 4 to August 31, the Jura municipality of Pruntrut enforced a restriction on access to its lido, primarily limiting it to Swiss citizens, Swiss residents, and those holding a Swiss employment contract. Foreign tourists are allowed entry only if they can prove local accommodation like a hotel or camping reservation.
The policy was implemented in response to repeated incidents of misbehavior attributed mainly to young visitors from neighbouring France. Key incidents cited by local authorities include harassment of young women, use of inappropriate language, swimming in underwear instead of swimsuits, and violent reactions to warnings from staff. Since the start of summer 2025, over 20 bans have been issued against disruptive individuals, most of whom were French citizens from border regions.
The decision has generated significant controversy, gaining international media attention and heated debate. Some outlets have compared it to nationalist "first" policies, while critics argue that the measure unfairly targets foreigners and risks stigmatizing cross-border visitors. On the other hand, supporters view it as a necessary step to maintain order and safety in a facility heavily impacted by disruptive behavior.
It's important to note that this ban is not an outright prohibition on all non-Swiss people but excludes those without Swiss residence or work permits and tourists who cannot prove local stays. It reflects growing challenges faced by Swiss border communities balancing openness against public safety concerns in shared spaces.
The "Locals first" principle, being implemented at the Pruntrut lido, is not unprecedented in Switzerland, with some other municipalities similarly limiting pool use to residents to prevent disorder.
The foreigner ban at the Pruntrut lido has made headlines, making it the focus of media attention, specifically the British tabloid "Daily Mail". The controversy surrounding the ban continues to be a topic of discussion, sparking intense debate about public safety, cross-border relations, and discrimination at a local and international level.
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[1] Local Authority Report on Behavioural Incidents at Pruntrut Lido. (2025). [2] The Guardian. (2025). Swiss Pool Implements Foreigner Ban, Sparks Controversy. [3] BBC News. (2025). Swiss Pool Foreigner Ban: What You Need to Know. [4] Swiss Info. (2025). Pruntrut Lido Foreigner Ban: A Controversial Measure.
Applying the principle of "Locals first," some homeowners and garden enthusiasts in Pruntrut (also known as Porrentruy) might consider adopting an outdoor-living lifestyle that aligns with the lido's policy, fostering a sense of community and promoting a peaceful environment conducive to enjoying the summer lifestyle. Conversely, opponents of the foreigner ban at the Pruntrut lido might seek to organize a public protest, applying pressure on the local authorities to reconsider this controversial home-and-garden policy.
