Lausanne police launch reforms after scandals and deaths

Lausanne’s city police are moving ahead with reforms after a series of scandals and deaths linked to police operations, SRF reported. The city government has approved initial measures under its “Reform 2030” programme, based on a report by former Neuchâtel police commander André Duvillard.

The reforms aim to tackle racism and sexism within the force, improve the working environment and strengthen police management. A central measure is mandatory training for managers to help prevent discrimination, improve interactions with people from different cultural backgrounds and defuse conflicts.

The police will test the training at three pilot events in November and December. It was developed with the Swiss Refugee Council, the International League Against Racism and Anti-Semitism, and an internal police unit. All managers are expected to take part in 2027 and 2028.

The city has also reorganised human resources and given the function a stronger role in police management. The changes are intended to improve staff support, encourage internal career development and better assist officers in training.

Interim police commander Stéphane Volper has set up direct meetings with staff. Eight sessions with managers and members of the force are planned by the end of the year to improve internal dialogue and identify problems early.

The Lausanne force has faced repeated criticism in recent years over racist and sexist comments in officers’ WhatsApp groups, the deaths of two young scooter riders who were fleeing police, and deaths during disputed police operations that raised questions about the use of excessive force. The scandals also had personnel consequences: former commander Olivier Botteron retired early in July 2026, after announcing his departure in September 2025.