Lausanne, the capital city of the canton de Vaud, is a beautiful place to live in. It harbors many internationally-known institutions, such as the University of Lausanne (UNIL) and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL). It is also where the International Olympic Committee is based since 1914.
As a place of high education and as the fourth largest city in Switzerland, with a population of more than 145’000 inhabitants, Lausanne is a multicultural and vibrant city. Of these 145’000 inhabitants, more than 43% do not hold a Swiss passport.
As a member of the European Coalition of Cities against Racism, the City of Lausanne develops and handles a series of measures against racism.
Since 2007, and like many other European and Swiss cities, Lausanne, through the Lausanne Office for Immigrants (BLI), organizes the Action Week against Racism. Meetings, workshops and events are organized in collaboration with associations and institutions and are designed to inform the population about topics linked to discrimination and racism. The Action Week also commemorates the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination which takes place every 21st of March.
Lausanne, through the Lausanne Office for Immigrants (BLI), also plays a part in informing, raising awareness and advising people and communities in Lausanne.
Victims of racism and discrimination in Lausanne can get free and confidential consultations at the BLI, which provide them with information and support. The BLI also organizes customized trainings and workshops for public administrations, institutions and associations.