Which obligation applies only to men in Switzerland?
Welche Pflicht gilt in der Schweiz nur für Männer?
Correct answer: A
- A Men must do military service or civil protection service up to a certain age.Männer müssen bis zu einem bestimmten Alter Militärdienst oder Zivilschutzdienst leisten.
- B Men must take on a political office if needed.Männer müssen bei Bedarf ein politisches Amt übernehmen.
- C Men must provide for the family's maintenance.Männer müssen für den Unterhalt der Familie sorgen.
- D Men must pay more taxes and health insurance premiums.Männer müssen mehr Steuern und Krankenkassenprämien bezahlen.
Why
The Federal Constitution obliges only Swiss men to do military service. For women it is voluntary.
Common mistakes
- B: Men must take on a political office if needed.
- There is no obligation only for men to take on a political office.
- C: Men must provide for the family's maintenance.
- Both parents provide for the family's maintenance together.
- D: Men must pay more taxes and health insurance premiums.
- Taxes and health insurance premiums do not depend on sex.
Topic
Military service, civilian service and civil protection service
In Switzerland, military service is compulsory. Every Swiss man must do service, usually from about the age of 19 and up to a certain age. For Swiss women, military service is voluntary. Foreigners without Swiss citizenship do not have to do any service. The army protects the country and also helps in disasters.
Having a say: rights and obligations
Obligations
Sources
Last checked: September 2026
Question 90 of the official question list of the Canton of Zurich (Gemeindeamt, May 2025). Translation and explanation: Swiss Passport.