Exile and Migration (Switzerland)

Author(s) : Anja Huber

Source : https://encyclopedia.1914-1918-online.net/article/exile_and_migration_switzerland

Abstract:

This article analyses Swiss migration policy and Switzerland’s role as a country of asylum from 1914 to 1918. Subsequent sections discuss the change in migration patterns; how political emigrants and refugees were dealt with; the role of exile communities; the establishment of new border controls and a Federal Immigration Authority; and eventually the discourse on “Überfremdung“. This article argues that the war gave rise to new migratory patterns and a defensive outlook against foreigners in Switzerland. Furthermore, the state of war enabled the Swiss government to centralise migration control at the federal level.