Questionable Framings: A Panel Discussion on the "Sustainability Initiative"
On 18 May 2026, 18:30, Prof. Debjani Bhattacharyya, together with Dr Hanna Hilbrandt, will be hosting a panel discussion on the so-called "Nachhaltigkeitsinitiative" (Sustainability Inititiative):
Fragwürdige Framings: Eine Podiumsdiskussion zur "Nachhaltigkeitsinitiative" (Questionable Framings: A Panel Discussion on the "Sustainability Initiative")
“Our trains are full,” “housing shortage,” and “Our beautiful Switzerland is being paved over” are some of the slogans and buzzwords used to promote the so-called “Sustainability Initiative.” This upcoming vote takes place against the backdrop of the growing global influence of right-wing populist forces and anti-immigration mobilization. It is striking how social and environmental arguments—such as those regarding housing equity and ecological sustainability—are being turned against immigration. The panel will examine the social, geographical, political, and historical contexts of these framing strategies—particularly in light of neoliberal economic practices.
Panelists:
Hanna Hilbrandt (University of Zurich)
Marcel Hänggi (Journalist and Author)
Sandra King-Savic (Institute New Switzerland)
Damir Skenderovic (University of Freiburg)
Konstanze Burkard (Swiss Refugee Council)
Moderation: Kaspar Surber (WOZ)
Find more information on the flyer
