Swiss voters head to the polls on Sunday to decide whether to support a measure passed in parliament to make it illegal to discriminate against people based on their sexual orientation.
Polls show solid support for what's been billed as an "anti-homophobia" law, but opponents gathered enough signatures in a petition drive to put the issue on the ballot. Switzerland holds regular referendums that give voters a direct say in policy-making.
Operators of restaurants, cinemas and public facilities like swimming pools, for example, would not be able to discriminate against anyone based on their sexual orientation if the measure passes. Supporters of the parliamentary moves say the enhancements to Swiss anti-racism laws are needed and will not prevent legitimate public debate -- as long as it doesn't stray into fomenting hate or discrimination.
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