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.

Booklet «Living safely together in Switzerland»

Poster «Living safely together in Switzerland»

Violence in the family

Domestic violence is violence that occurs within a family or partnership and is punishable in Switzerland. This includes humiliation, taking money, verbal abuse, serious physical violence, sexual assault and coercion against one’s children, parents or partner. Mutilation of girls’ or women’s genitals is also prohibited, as is forced marriage and violence on the grounds of ‘honour’.

Victims or persons aware of domestic violence (e.g. children, neighbours or friends) should inform the police. They are legally obliged to take action in cases of domestic violence.

The following applies

Ask for help. Talk to a help centre staff member or police officer.
Find out in advance where you can get help in an emergency, for example, in your neighbourhood.
Note important numbers, such as those of the police (the 117 emergency number) and people you trust, and keep them close at hand.
Keep important documents about you and your children with someone you trust.

For persons not directly involved

In emergencies: do not put yourself at risk. Inform the police immediately by calling the 117 emergency number.
If you suspect domestic violence: talk to the person in question about your suspicions. Offer to go with this person to a help centre or the police.

If the police are called, they can remove the violent person from the apartment and forbid them from returning for several days.

Shelter

A marriage partner and any children who are at high risk can be taken to a shelter, the location of which is kept secret. They can stay there free of charge. Even men can be taken to a safe place.

Right of residence

Family members who join a partner living in Switzerland under family reunification and then experience violence can separate from this partner and receive their own residence permit. For this, they must document their experience and show medical certificates, police reports and/or reports from victim advisory centres.