What does the Swiss Federal Constitution prohibit?
Was verbietet die Schweizer Bundesverfassung?
Correct answer: C
- A You may not wear religious symbols in public spaces.Man darf im öffentlichen Raum keine religiösen Zeichen tragen.
- B You may not run collections for people in need.Man darf keine Sammelaktionen für notleidende Menschen durchführen.
- C No one may be tortured.Es darf niemand gefoltert werden.
- D You may not work without pay.Man darf nicht ohne Lohn arbeiten.
Why
The Federal Constitution protects human dignity. Torture is therefore prohibited without any exception.
Common mistakes
- A: You may not wear religious symbols in public spaces.
- In principle you may wear religious symbols such as a cross or a headscarf. Freedom of religion protects this.
- D: You may not work without pay.
- Voluntary work without pay is allowed, for example in an association.
- B: You may not run collections for people in need.
- Collections for people in need are allowed.
Topic
What is prohibited and what is protected
The Federal Constitution protects the dignity and the life of every person. That is why torture and any cruel or inhuman treatment are prohibited. The death penalty is also prohibited. Other punishments are allowed, for example a fine, prison or community service. The police may not sentence anyone to prison. Anyone who does not agree with a punishment can let a court decide.
Having a say: rights and obligations
Laws and prohibitions
Sources
Last checked: September 2026
Question 85 of the official question list of the Canton of Zurich (Gemeindeamt, May 2025). Translation and explanation: Swiss Passport.