Niels Rebetez, the historian questioning Switzerland's military service system

Niels Rebetez, a 36-year-old historian, is shedding light on Switzerland's complex relationship with military service through his new book, "Au temps de l’objection. Histoire du refus du service militaire en Suisse (1960-1996)." The publication, stemming from his doctoral thesis, delves into decades of conscientious objection, offering insights into why the Swiss have debated mandatory service for half a century.

Rebetez's work arrives at a critical juncture, as Switzerland prepares to vote on June 14th on a significant revision of its civil service law. Proposed by the Federal Council, the changes aim to decrease admissions by nearly 40% and bolster the army's dwindling ranks amidst heightened geopolitical tensions.

Originally from Saignelégier in the Jura Mountains, Rebetez studied contemporary history in Fribourg. His academic focus has often been on the fringes of the Swiss model, initially exploring antipsychiatry movements and later the figure of the conscientious objector. This path has led him to his current role managing LGBTQI+ issues at the Federal Office for Gender Equality.

"The way a society treats people who do not fit its norm is always the best indicator of its democratic functioning," Rebetez stated. His historical analysis provides a lens through which to understand the persistent debates surrounding military and civil service obligations in Switzerland, connecting past dissent to present-day policy discussions.

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The way a society treats people who do not fit its norm is always the best indicator of its democratic functioning.