Switzerland is a state governed by the rule of law. What does that mean?
Die Schweiz ist ein Rechtsstaat. Was bedeutet das?
Correct answer: A
- A The state, too, must abide by the laws.Auch der Staat muss sich an die Gesetze halten.
- B The laws only apply to the people who agreed to these laws.Die Gesetze gelten nur für die Personen, die diesen Gesetzen zugestimmt haben.
- C The laws only apply to Swiss citizens.Die Gesetze gelten nur für Schweizer Bürgerinnen und Bürger.
- D The laws do not apply to politicians.Die Gesetze gelten nicht für Politikerinnen und Politiker.
Why
In a state governed by the rule of law, the laws are above everyone. The authorities, the government and the police must also abide by them and may not act arbitrarily.
Common mistakes
- B: The laws only apply to the people who agreed to these laws.
- Laws apply to everyone, including people who voted no.
- C: The laws only apply to Swiss citizens.
- The laws apply to all people in Switzerland, not only to Swiss citizens.
- D: The laws do not apply to politicians.
- Politicians must also abide by the laws. Nobody is above the law.
Topic
Rule of law and monopoly on the use of force
Switzerland is a state governed by the rule of law. This means: the laws apply to everyone. They apply to Swiss citizens, to foreigners and also to politicians. They also apply to people who said no in a popular vote. And above all: the state, too, must abide by the laws. It may not act arbitrarily.
How the state works
Democracy and the rule of law
Sources
Last checked: September 2026
Question 76 of the official question list of the Canton of Zurich (Gemeindeamt, May 2025). Translation and explanation: Swiss Passport.