Well this is quite a story…
Different countries have different laws when it comes to citizenship, and Switzerland is one of the toughest countries out there when it comes to granting citizenship. Apparently local residents in Switzerland often have a say in citizenship applications for people in their region (though they can be overruled).
Well, a 42 year old Dutch vegan activist who has lived in Switzerland since she was eight years old is seeking Swiss citizenship, but is getting some pushback from the local community, because she’s “too annoying.” Why are the residents of Gipf-Oberfrick in the canton of Aargau not onboard with her becoming a citizen? Per Yahoo News:
Ms Holten, a vegan and animal rights activist, has campaigned against the use of cowbells in the village and her actions have annoyed the locals.
The resident’s committee argued that if she does not accept Swiss traditions and the Swiss way of life, she should not be able to become an official national.
Tanja Suter, the president of the local Swiss People’s Party, claimed Ms Holten has a “big mouth” and that residents did not want to grant her citizenship “if she annoys us and doesn’t respect our traditions”.
Ms Holten, who describes herself as a freelance journalist, model and drama student, has also campaigned against a number of other Swiss traditions like hunting, pig races and the noisy church bells in town.
Oh my! I’m not sure what exactly to make of this. On one hand I’m all for people bringing their individuality to a place rather than just wanting them to blend in. At the same time…
The case is now being reviewed by the Cantonal government in Aargau. I’ll be curious to see what they decide.
What do you guys think — should she be granted citizenship, or no?
Membership is free and takes no more information than commenting as a guest. Earn status points for good contributions, and see fewer ads as your status grows.