Swiss Man Jailed for Facebook Comment on Gender Ideology
Emanuel Brünisholz, a Swiss wind instrument repairman, is set to spend ten days in prison for a Facebook comment deemed offensive to the LGBTQI community. The case status has sparked controversy, with critics accusing Swiss media of hypocrisy and arguing it silences dissent on gender ideology.
Brünisholz was convicted under Switzerland's anti-discrimination laws for stating that biological sex is immutable. The comment, posted in December 2022, was in response to a post by Swiss National Council member Andreas Glarner. It triggered complaints from activists who accused him of incitement to hatred under Article 261bis of the Swiss Criminal Code.
Initially fined 500 Swiss francs (around €535), Brünisholz refused to pay, converting the fine into a prison sentence. He announced on social media that he would be going to prison on 2 December. The case has drawn fierce criticism online, with commentators arguing that the conviction stifles debate on gender ideology.
Meanwhile, the Bundestag faction of the AfD, led by Dr. Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla, proposed on September 9, 2025, to repeal the law on self-determination regarding gender entry (SBGG) in Germany. They aim to introduce a new regulation for protecting women, children, and adolescents. Parliament is considering further amendments to extend protections to 'gender identity', a move opponents warn would entrench censorship.
Brünisholz's imprisonment has raised questions about freedom of speech and the limits of anti-discrimination laws. As Germany considers changes to its gender entry laws, the Swiss immigration case serves as a point of debate, with critics warning of potential censorship.
