What is prohibited in a state governed by the rule of law?
Was ist in einem Rechtsstaat verboten?
Correct answer: C
- A criticising lawsGesetze zu kritisieren
- B questioning the work of democratically elected authoritiesdie Arbeit von demokratisch gewählten Behörden in Frage zu stellen
- C arresting and imprisoning people without reasonPersonen grundlos zu verhaften und einzusperren
- D joining a religious groupeiner religiösen Gruppierung beizutreten
Why
In a state governed by the rule of law, the state is also bound by the laws. It may not arrest or imprison anyone without reason and without a regulated procedure.
Common mistakes
- A: criticising laws
- Criticising laws is allowed. Freedom of opinion protects this.
- B: questioning the work of democratically elected authorities
- You may question the work of the authorities. Criticism is part of democracy.
- D: joining a religious group
- Freedom of religion allows you to join a religious group.
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 91 of the official question list of the Canton of Zurich (Gemeindeamt, May 2025). Translation and explanation: Swiss Passport.