Living safely together in Switzerland
Welcome!
The Swiss Federal Constitution outlines the fundamental rules for living together in Switzerland and takes precedence over all other laws. No other law may violate the Constitution.
All those living in Switzerland have rights and obligations that are granted under the Swiss Federal Constitution and by law. These apply independently of whatever political, religious, social or other beliefs or convictions a person may have.
The Federal Constitution enshrines the most important fundamental rights.
The following applies
- Everyone is equal before the law. Discrimination and racism are forbidden.
- Men and women have equal rights and determine their own lives.
- Everyone is free to express their opinion, provided they do not insult, threaten or incite violence against others.
- Everyone is free to choose their religion and practise their faith peacefully.
Living safely without weapons
It is prohibited to bear or carry firearms, banned knives and dangerous objects that can be used to threaten or injure others. The police will confiscate such items.
The following applies
- Leave any knives at home. This will prevent you from being tempted to use one in a conflict situation. Carrying a knife is not a form of protection because it can quickly be turned against you and thus puts you at risk.
- Remember: merely carrying a knife may be a crime.
If someone threatens you with a knife
- Don’t try to confront them.
- Try to get away.
- Call the 117 emergency number straight away.
Important: Even small knives can cause serious injury or even death.
Help and advice
Emergency assistance (free numbers 24 hours a day)
Die Dargebotene Hand – anonymous help for adults | Tel. 143
Pro Juventute – anonymous help for children and teenagers | Tel. 147
General and legal advice
Swiss refugee council | Tel. 031 370 75 75
Frabina – counselling for binational couples and families | Tel. 031 381 27 01
Advice in cases of domestic and sexual violence
Forced Marriage Service | Tel. 0800 800 007 (in German, French and Italian)
Professional association of counselling against violence – Help for perpetrators of violence (in German and French)
National competence centre for violence-free ageing | Tel. 0848 00 13 13 (in German, French and Italian)
Radicalisation and extremism
Contact points Radicalisation and extremism
Racism / Discrimination
LGBTIQ-Helpline | Tel. 0800 133 133
Counselling network for victims of racism (in German, French and Italian)
Reporting plateform for Online Racist Hate Speech
Foundation against racism and anti-Semitism (in German and French)