Who decides which articles are published in the newspaper?
Wer entscheidet, welche Artikel in der Zeitung veröffentlicht werden?
Correct answer: A
- A the newspaper's editorial teamdie Zeitungsredaktion
- B the cantonal association of journalistsder kantonale Verband der Journalistinnen und Journalisten
- C the canton's central media officedie zentrale Medienstelle des Kantons
- D the media policedie Medienpolizei
Why
The media are free; the state does not interfere. That is why the editorial team itself chooses what it publishes.
Common mistakes
- C: the canton's central media office
- A state office that decides on articles would be censorship. The Federal Constitution prohibits this.
- B: the cantonal association of journalists
- Professional associations represent journalists. But they do not decide what a newspaper prints.
Topic
Newspapers and editorial teams
In Switzerland there is freedom of the media. It is in the Federal Constitution, and censorship is prohibited. The state may not decide what appears in a newspaper, on the radio or on television. Free media are important for democracy. For example, they inform people about popular votes and they keep a check on those in power.
Having a say: rights and obligations
Parties, associations and media
Sources
Last checked: September 2026
Question 317 of the official question list of the Canton of Zurich (Gemeindeamt, May 2025). Translation and explanation: Swiss Passport.