Public exposure of nakedness officially restricted in selected Swiss communities
In the picturesque canton of Vaud, a long-standing tradition of public nudity has met an unexpected challenge. As of April, nudity has been banned on the Petite Amérique beach in Yvonand, following complaints of "unpleasant situations" of a sexual nature [1].
The decision has sparked controversy among regulars who consider the beach a "little corner of paradise" [2]. One such regular, Phil, expressed his dismay, stating, "This beach is a special place, and this ban feels like an injustice." Another regular, Malou, echoed this sentiment, asserting that the ban is "unfair and unnecessary."
The ban is part of a broader trend in Switzerland, where municipalities are increasingly tightening their stance against naturists. Local media reports suggest that even Zurich is contemplating a ban on public nudity in a designated nudist spot on the Limmat River, the Werdinsel island [4].
However, not all Swiss municipalities share this view. Some have been tolerant towards nudity on public beaches, and the issue remains contentious at the local level despite the absence of federal prohibition [1][3]. The Swiss GoTopless movement, for instance, has publicly protested against local restrictions on toplessness in places like Geneva's municipal swimming pools.
The authority to enact such ordinances lies with the municipalities, as they strive to maintain public order and align with the cultural expectations of their residents. The Federal Court of Switzerland, the highest judicial authority, has ruled that local authorities can impose fines or bans on their own territories regarding public nudity [1].
Despite the ban, many commentators on social media argue that a ban is not necessary. One commentator suggests that anyone bothered by nudity should avoid the nudist beach and instead, authorities can send a public order officer to inspect it more often. Another commentator assures that seeing a naked person while swimming with children does not permanently damage their swimming skills or values.
As the debate continues, Yvonand authorities are hoped by local nudists to reconsider their decision. For anyone planning a visit to a Swiss lake, it's essential to check with local authorities about what is and is not permitted in a specific area before going to a lake naked. After all, public nudity is allowed in some places but not in others in Switzerland.
The controversy over the ban on nudity at Petite Amérique beach is not limited to Yvonand, as some Zurich residents are also pushing for a ban on outdoor-living at a designated nudist spot on the Limmat River. In contrast, certain Swiss municipalities continue to support home-and-garden lifestyles that include public nudity on beaches.
