{"id":433,"date":"2026-07-11T13:31:10","date_gmt":"2026-07-11T13:31:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/baarda.ch\/?p=433"},"modified":"2026-07-11T13:31:10","modified_gmt":"2026-07-11T13:31:10","slug":"federal-constitutionof-the-swiss-confederation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/baarda.ch\/?p=433","title":{"rendered":"Federal Constitutionof the Swiss Confederation"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">of 18 April 1999 (Status as of 3 March 2024)<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#preamble\"><strong>Preamble<\/strong><\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the name of Almighty God!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Swiss People and the Cantons,<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">mindful of their responsibility towards creation,<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">resolved to renew their alliance so as to strengthen liberty, democracy, independence and peace in a spirit of solidarity and openness towards the world,<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">determined to live together with mutual consideration and respect for their diversity,<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">conscious of their common achievements and their responsibility towards future generations,<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and in the knowledge that only those who use their freedom remain free, and that the strength of a people is measured by the well-being of its weakest members,<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">adopt the following Constitution<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#fn-d437035e38\">1<\/a><\/sup>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#fnbck-d437035e38\">1<\/a><\/sup> Adopted by the popular vote on 18&nbsp;April&nbsp;1999 (FedD of 18&nbsp;Dec.&nbsp;1998, FCD of 11&nbsp;Aug.&nbsp;1999; <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/oc\/1999\/404\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AS<strong> 1999 <\/strong>2556<\/a>;<a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/1997\/1_1_1_1\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">BBl<strong> 1997 <\/strong>I 1<\/a>,<em><strong>1999 <\/strong>162 <\/em><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/1999\/1_5986_5306_4968\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">5986<\/a><strong>)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#tit_1\">Title 1 General Provisions<\/a><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_1\"><strong>Art. 1<\/strong> The Swiss Confederation<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The People and the Cantons of Zurich, Bern, Lucerne, Uri, Schwyz, Obwalden and Nidwalden, Glarus, Zug, Fribourg, Solothurn, Basel Stadt and Basel Landschaft, Schaffhausen, Appenzell Ausserrhoden and Appenzell Innerrhoden, St Gallen, Graub\u00fcnden, Aargau, Thurgau, Ticino, Vaud, Valais, Neuch\u00e2tel, Geneva, and Jura form the Swiss Confederation.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_2\"><strong>Art. 2<\/strong> Aims<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;The Swiss Confederation shall protect the liberty and rights of the people and safeguard the independence and security of the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;It shall promote the common welfare, sustainable development, internal cohesion and cultural diversity of the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;It shall ensure the greatest possible equality of opportunity among its citizens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>4<\/sup>&nbsp;It is committed to the long term preservation of natural resources and to a just and peaceful international order.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_3\"><strong>Art. 3<\/strong> Cantons<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Cantons are sovereign except to the extent that their sovereignty is limited by the Federal Constitution. They exercise all rights that are not vested in the Confederation.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_4\"><strong>Art. 4<\/strong> National languages<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The National Languages are German, French, Italian, and Romansh.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_5\"><strong>Art. 5<\/strong> Rule of law<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;All activities of the state are based on and limited by law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;State activities must be conducted in the public interest and be proportionate to the ends sought.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;State institutions and private persons shall act in good faith.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>4<\/sup>&nbsp;The Confederation and the Cantons shall respect international law.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_5_a\"><strong>Art. 5<\/strong><em>a<\/em><\/a><sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#fn-d437035e168\">2<\/a><\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_5_a\"> Subsidiarity<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The principle of subsidiarity must be observed in the allocation and performance of state tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#fnbck-d437035e168\">2<\/a><\/sup> Adopted by the popular vote on 28&nbsp;Nov.&nbsp;2004, in force since 1&nbsp;Jan.&nbsp;2008 (FCD of 3&nbsp;Oct.&nbsp;2003, FCD of 26&nbsp;Jan.&nbsp;2005, FCD of 7&nbsp;Nov.&nbsp;2007; <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/oc\/2007\/785\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AS <strong>2007 <\/strong>5765<\/a>; <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/2002\/316\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">BBl <strong>2002<\/strong> 2291<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/2003\/1089\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>2003<\/strong> 6591<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/2005\/116\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>2005&nbsp;<\/strong>951<\/a>).<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_6\"><strong>Art. 6<\/strong> Individual and collective responsibility<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All individuals shall take responsibility for themselves and shall, according to their abilities, contribute to achieving the tasks of the state and society.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#tit_2\">Title 2 Fundamental Rights, Citizenship and Social Goals<\/a><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#tit_2\/chap_1\">Chapter 1 Fundamental Rights<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_7\"><strong>Art. 7<\/strong> Human dignity<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Human dignity must be respected and protected.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_8\"><strong>Art. 8<\/strong> Equality before the law<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Every person is equal before the law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;No person may be discriminated against, in particular on grounds of origin, race, gender, age, language, social position, way of life, religious, ideological, or political convictions, or because of a physical, mental or psychological disability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;Men and women have equal rights. The law shall ensure their equality, both in law and in practice, most particularly in the family, in education, and in the workplace. Men and women have the right to equal pay for work of equal value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>4<\/sup>&nbsp;The law shall provide for the elimination of inequalities that affect persons with disabilities.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_9\"><strong>Art. 9<\/strong> Protection against arbitrary conduct and principle of good faith<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every person has the right to be treated by state authorities in good faith and in a non-arbitrary manner.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_10\"><strong>Art. 10<\/strong> Right to life and to personal freedom<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Every person has the right to life. The death penalty is prohibited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Every person has the right to personal liberty and in particular to physical and mental integrity and to freedom of movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;Torture and any other form of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment are prohibited.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_10_a\"><strong>Art.<\/strong><strong> 10<\/strong><em>a<\/em><\/a><sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#fn-d437035e299\">3<\/a><\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_10_a\"> Ban on covering the face<\/a><sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#fn-d437035e338\">4<\/a><\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_10_a\">*<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;No person may cover their face in public spaces or in places that are accessible to the public or where services are offered to anyone wishing to partake of them; the ban does not apply to places of worship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;No person may force another person to cover their face on the grounds of their sex.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;The law shall provide for exceptions. These may only be justified on the grounds of health, safety, weather conditions or local custom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#fnbck-d437035e299\">3<\/a><\/sup> Adopted by the popular vote on 7 March 2021, in force since 7 March 2021 (FedD of 19 June 2020, FCD of 31 May 2021 \u2013 <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/oc\/2021\/310\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AS <strong>2021<\/strong> 310<\/a>; <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/2017\/1844\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">BBl <strong>2017<\/strong> 6447<\/a>; <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/2019\/868\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>2019<\/strong> 2913<\/a>; <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/2020\/1295\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>2020<\/strong> 5507<\/a>; <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/2021\/1185\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>2021<\/strong> 1185<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#fnbck-d437035e338\">4<\/a><\/sup><sup>*<\/sup> With transitional provision.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_11\"><strong>Art. 11<\/strong> Protection of children and young people<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Children and young people have the right to the special protection of their integrity and to the encouragement of their development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;They may personally exercise their rights to the extent that their power of judgement allows.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_12\"><strong>Art. 12<\/strong> Right to assistance when in need<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Persons in need and unable to provide for themselves have the right to assistance and care, and to the financial means required for a decent standard of living.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_13\"><strong>Art. 13<\/strong> Right to privacy<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Every person has the right to privacy in their private and family life and in their home, and in relation to their mail and telecommunications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Every person has the right to be protected against the misuse of their personal data.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_14\"><strong>Art. 14<\/strong> Right to marry and to have a family<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The right to marry and to have a family is guaranteed.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_15\"><strong>Art. 15<\/strong> Freedom of religion and conscience<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Freedom of religion and conscience is guaranteed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Every person has the right to choose freely their religion or their philosophical convictions, and to profess them alone or in community with others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;Every person has the right to join or to belong to a religious community, and to follow religious teachings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>4<\/sup>&nbsp;No person may be forced to join or belong to a religious community, to participate in a religious act, or to follow religious teachings.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_16\"><strong>Art. 16<\/strong> Freedom of expression and of information<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Freedom of expression and of information is guaranteed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Every person has the right freely to form, express, and impart their opinions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;Every person has the right freely to receive information to gather it from generally accessible sources and to disseminate it.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_17\"><strong>Art. 17<\/strong> Freedom of the media<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Freedom of the press, radio and television and of other forms of dissemination of features and information by means of public telecommunications is guaranteed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Censorship is prohibited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;The protection of sources is guaranteed.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_18\"><strong>Art. 18<\/strong> Freedom to use any language<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The freedom to use any language is guaranteed.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_19\"><strong>Art. 19<\/strong> Right to basic education<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The right to an adequate and free basic education is guaranteed<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_20\"><strong>Art. 20<\/strong> Academic freedom<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Freedom of research and teaching is guaranteed.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_21\"><strong>Art. 21<\/strong> Freedom of artistic expression<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Freedom of artistic expression is guaranteed.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_22\"><strong>Art. 22<\/strong> Freedom of assembly<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Freedom of assembly is guaranteed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Every person has the right to organise meetings and to participate or not to participate in meetings.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_23\"><strong>Art. 23<\/strong> Freedom of association<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Freedom of association is guaranteed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Every person has the right to form, join or belong to an association and to participate in the activities of an association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;No person may be compelled to join or to belong to an association.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_24\"><strong>Art. 24<\/strong> Freedom of domicile<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Swiss citizens have the right to establish their domicile anywhere in the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;They have the right to leave or to enter Switzerland.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_25\"><strong>Art. 25<\/strong> Protection against expulsion, extradition and deportation<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Swiss citizens may not be expelled from Switzerland and may only be extradited to a foreign authority with their consent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Refugees may not be deported or extradited to a state in which they will be persecuted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;No person may be deported to a state in which they face the threat of torture or any other form of cruel or inhumane treatment or punishment.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_26\"><strong>Art. 26<\/strong> Guarantee of ownership<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;The right to own property is guaranteed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;The compulsory purchase of property and any restriction on ownership that is equivalent to compulsory purchase shall be compensated in full.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_27\"><strong>Art. 27<\/strong> Economic freedom<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Economic freedom is guaranteed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Economic freedom includes in particular the freedom to choose an occupation as well as the freedom to pursue a private economic activity.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_28\"><strong>Art. 28<\/strong> Right to form professional associations<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Employees, employers and their organisations have the right to join together in order to protect their interests, to form associations and to join or not to join such associations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Disputes must wherever possible be resolved through negotiation or mediation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;Strikes and lock outs are permitted if they relate to employment relations and if they do not contravene any requirements to preserve peaceful employment relations or to conduct conciliation proceedings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>4<\/sup>&nbsp;The law may prohibit certain categories of person from taking strike action.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_29\"><strong>Art. 29<\/strong> General procedural guarantees<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Every person has the right to equal and fair treatment in judicial and administrative proceedings and to have their case decided within a reasonable time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Each party to a case has the right to be heard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;Any person who does not have sufficient means has the right to free legal advice and assistance unless their case appears to have no prospect of success. If it is necessary in order to safeguard their rights, they also have the right to free legal representation in court.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_29_a\"><strong>Art. 29<\/strong><em>a<\/em><\/a><sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#fn-d437035e708\">5<\/a><\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_29_a\"> Guarantee of access to the courts<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In a legal dispute, every person has the right to have their case determined by a judicial authority. The Confederation and the Cantons may by law preclude the determination by the courts of certain exceptional categories of case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#fnbck-d437035e708\">5<\/a><\/sup> Adopted by the popular vote on 12&nbsp;March&nbsp;2000, in force since 1&nbsp;Jan.&nbsp;2007 (FedD of 8&nbsp;Oct.&nbsp;1999, FCD of 17&nbsp;May&nbsp;2000, FedD of 8&nbsp;March&nbsp;2005; <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/oc\/2002\/467\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AS <strong>2002<\/strong> 3148<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/oc\/2006\/185\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>2006<\/strong> 1059<\/a>; <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/1997\/1_1_1_1\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">BBl <strong>1997<\/strong> I 1<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/1999\/1_8633_7831_7454\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>1999 <\/strong>8633<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/2000\/615\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>2000<\/strong> 2990<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/2001\/731\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>2001<\/strong>&nbsp;4202<\/a>).<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_30\"><strong>Art. 30<\/strong> Judicial proceedings<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Any person whose case falls to be judicially decided has the right to have their case heard by a legally constituted, competent, independent and impartial court. Ad hoc courts are prohibited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Unless otherwise provided by law, any person against whom civil proceedings have been raised has the right to have their case decided by a court within the jurisdiction in which they reside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;Unless the law provides otherwise, court hearings and the delivery of judgments shall be in public.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_31\"><strong>Art. 31<\/strong> Deprivation of liberty<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;No person may be deprived of their liberty other than in the circumstances and in the manner provided for by the law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Any person deprived of their liberty has the right to be notified without delay and in a language they can understand of the reasons for their detention and of their rights. They must be given the opportunity to exercise their rights, in particular, the right to have their next-of-kin informed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;Any person in pre-trial detention has the right to be brought before a court without delay. The court decides whether the person must remain in detention or be released. Any person in pre-trial detention has the right to have their case decided within a reasonable time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>4<\/sup>&nbsp;Any person who has been deprived of their liberty by a body other than a court has the right to have recourse to a court at any time. The court shall decide as quickly as possible on the legality of their detention.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_32\"><strong>Art. 32<\/strong> Criminal proceedings<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Every person is presumed innocent until they have been found guilty by a legally enforceable judgment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Every accused person has the right to be notified as quickly and comprehensively as possible of the charge brought against them. They must be given the opportunity to assert their rights to a proper defence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;Every convicted person has the right to have their conviction reviewed by a higher court, with the exception of cases in which the Federal Supreme Court sits at first instance.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_33\"><strong>Art. 33<\/strong> Right of petition<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Every person has the right, without prejudice, to petition the authorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;The authorities must acknowledge receipt of such petitions.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_34\"><strong>Art. 34<\/strong> Political rights<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Political rights are guaranteed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;The guarantee of political rights protects the freedom of the citizen to form an opinion and to give genuine expression to his or her will.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_35\"><strong>Art. 35<\/strong> Upholding of fundamental rights<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Fundamental rights must be upheld throughout the legal system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Whoever acts on behalf of the state is bound by fundamental rights and is under a duty to contribute to their implementation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;The authorities shall ensure that fundamental rights, where appropriate, apply to relationships among private persons.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_36\"><strong>Art. 36<\/strong> Restrictions on fundamental rights<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Restrictions on fundamental rights must have a legal basis. Significant restrictions must have their basis in a federal act. The foregoing does not apply in cases of serious and immediate danger where no other course of action is possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Restrictions on fundamental rights must be justified in the public interest or for the protection of the fundamental rights of others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;Any restrictions on fundamental rights must be proportionate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>4<\/sup>&nbsp;The essence of fundamental rights is sacrosanct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#tit_2\/chap_2\">Chapter 2 Citizenship and Political Rights<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_37\"><strong>Art. 37<\/strong> Citizenship<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;Any person who is a citizen of a commune and of the Canton to which that commune belongs is a Swiss citizen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;No person may be given preferential treatment or suffer prejudice because of their citizenship. The foregoing does not apply to regulations on political rights in citizens\u2019 communes and corporations or to participation in the assets thereof, unless cantonal legislation provides otherwise.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_38\"><strong>Art. 38<\/strong> Acquisition and deprivation of citizenship<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;The Confederation shall regulate the acquisition and deprivation of citizenship by birth, marriage or adoption. It shall also regulate the deprivation of Swiss citizenship on other grounds, together with the reinstatement of citizenship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;It shall legislate on the minimum requirements for the naturalisation of foreign nationals by the Cantons and grant naturalisation permits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;It shall enact simplified regulations on the naturalisation of:a. third generation immigrants;b. stateless children.<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#fn-d437035e965\">6<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#fnbck-d437035e965\">6<\/a><\/sup> Adopted by the popular vote on 12 Feb. 2017, in force since 12 Feb. 2017 (FedD of 30 Sept. 2016, FCD of 13 April 2017 \u2013 <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/oc\/2017\/259\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AS <strong>2017 <\/strong>2643<\/a>; <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/2015\/62\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">BBl <strong>2015<\/strong> 769 <\/a><a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/2015\/132\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">1327<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/fga\/2017\/748\/en\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>2017<\/strong> 3387<\/a>).<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_39\"><strong>Art. 39<\/strong> Exercise of political rights<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;The Confederation shall regulate the exercise of political rights in federal matters, and the Cantons shall regulate their exercise at cantonal and communal matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;Political rights are exercised in the commune in which a citizen resides, although the Confederation and the Cantons may provide for exceptions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;No person may exercise their political rights contemporaneously in more than one Canton.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>4<\/sup>&nbsp;A Canton may provide that a person newly registered as a resident may exercise the right to vote in cantonal and communal matters only after a waiting period of a maximum of three months of permanent settlement.<a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_40\"><strong>Art. 40<\/strong> The Swiss abroad<\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;The Confederation shall encourage relations among the Swiss abroad and their relations with Switzerland. It may support organisations that pursue this objective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;It shall legislate on the rights and obligations of the Swiss abroad, in particular in relation to the exercise of political rights in the Confederation, the fulfilment of the obligation to perform military or alternative service, welfare support and social security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#tit_2\/chap_3\">Chapter 3 Social Objectives<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#art_41\"><strong>Art.&nbsp;41<\/strong><\/a><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>1<\/sup>&nbsp;The Confederation and the Cantons shall, as a complement to personal responsibility and private initiative, endeavour to ensure that:a. every person has access to social security;b. every person has access to the health care that they require;c. families are protected and encouraged as communities of adults and children;d. every person who is fit to work can earn their living by working under fair conditions;e. any person seeking accommodation for themselves and their family can find suitable accommodation on reasonable terms;f. children and young people as well as persons of employable age can obtain an education and undergo basic and advanced training in accordance with their abilities;g.<sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fedlex.admin.ch\/eli\/cc\/1999\/404\/en#fn-d437035e1080\">7<\/a><\/sup> children and young people are encouraged to develop into independent and socially responsible people and are supported in their social, cultural and political integration and in leading healthy lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>2<\/sup>&nbsp;The Confederation and Cantons shall endeavour to ensure that every person is protected against the economic consequences of old-age, invalidity, illness, accident, unemployment, maternity, being orphaned and being widowed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>3<\/sup>&nbsp;They shall endeavour to achieve these social objectives within the scope of their constitutional powers and the resources available to them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><sup>4<\/sup>&nbsp;No direct right to state benefits may be established on the basis of these social objectives.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>of 18 April 1999 (Status as of 3 March 2024) Preamble In the name of Almighty God! The Swiss People and the Cantons, mindful of their responsibility towards creation, resolved to renew their alliance so as to strengthen liberty, democracy, independence and peace in a spirit of solidarity and openness towards the world, determined to &hellip; <\/p>\n<p class=\"link-more\"><a href=\"https:\/\/baarda.ch\/?p=433\" class=\"more-link\"><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">&#171;Federal Constitutionof the Swiss Confederation&#187;<\/span> weiterlesen<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-433","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/baarda.ch\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/433","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/baarda.ch\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/baarda.ch\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/baarda.ch\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/baarda.ch\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=433"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/baarda.ch\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/433\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":434,"href":"https:\/\/baarda.ch\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/433\/revisions\/434"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/baarda.ch\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=433"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/baarda.ch\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=433"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/baarda.ch\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=433"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}