What are the cantons mainly responsible for?
Für was sind die Kantone vor allem zuständig?
Correct answer: A
- A for running the cantonal administration and for cantonal lawsfür die Leitung der kantonalen Verwaltung und für kantonale Gesetze
- B for domestic and foreign policy at national levelfür die Innen- und Aussenpolitik auf nationaler Ebene
- C for national defence (military)für die nationale Verteidigung (Militär)
- D for monetary policy and customs dutiesfür die Geldpolitik und die Zölle
Why
The cantons have their own laws and their own administration, which is headed by the Cantonal Government.
Common mistakes
- B: for domestic and foreign policy at national level
- National domestic and foreign policy is made by the Confederation.
- C: for national defence (military)
- The military is a matter for the Confederation.
- D: for monetary policy and customs duties
- Monetary policy (National Bank) and customs duties are tasks of the Confederation.
Topic
Tasks of the canton, districts, petition
Switzerland has three levels: Confederation, cantons and municipalities. The cantons have their own laws, their own government and their own administration. The Confederation, on the other hand, is responsible for the army, foreign policy, customs and monetary policy. Treaties with the European Union are also concluded by the Confederation.
Canton and municipality of Zurich
Zurich: politics
Sources
Last checked: September 2026
Question 107 of the official question list of the Canton of Zurich (Gemeindeamt, May 2025). Translation and explanation: Swiss Passport.