Which punishment does the Federal Constitution prohibit?
Welche Strafe verbietet die Bundesverfassung?
Correct answer: C
- A a prison sentenceeine Gefängnisstrafe
- B a fineeine Geldstrafe
- C the death penaltydie Todesstrafe
- D community servicegemeinnützige Arbeit
Why
The Federal Constitution protects the right to life. That is why the death penalty is prohibited.
Common mistakes
- A: a prison sentence
- Prison sentences are allowed and are regulated in the Criminal Code.
- D: community service
- Community service is an allowed way of serving a sentence.
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 93 of the official question list of the Canton of Zurich (Gemeindeamt, May 2025). Translation and explanation: Swiss Passport.