Bills adopted

Revision of guardianship legislation

In force since 1 January 2013.

Euthanasia

On 29 June 2011, the Federal Council decides to refrain from including specific regulations on organised assisted suicide in criminal law. Nevertheless, he indends to continue promoting suicide prevention una palliative care with a view to reducing the number of suicides.

Minarets

On 29 November 2009, the Swiss people and cantons voted in favour of the popular initiative entitled "Against the Construction of Minarets".

Convention on Biomedicine

European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Dignity of the Human Being with regard to the Application of Biology and Medicine. In force since 1 November 2008.

Genetic Testing of Humans

Swiss Federal Law on the Genetic Testing of Humans. In force since 1 April 2007.

Registered Partnerships

The Federal Registered Partnerships Act enables homosexual couples to formalise their relationship in law. In force since 1 January 2007.

The status of animals

Switzerland officially stopped classifying animals as "things" as. The new legislation acknowledges that they are living beings capable of feeling and suffering. In force since 1 April 2003.

Abortion

In Switzerland, abortion is not punishable if a woman demands the abortion in writing within twelve weeks of the start of her last period and can claim a situation of distress. In force since 1 October 2002.

Reproductive medicine

Swiss Reproductive Medicine Act. In force since 1 January 2001.

Note

For the complete list of topics see the German, French or Italian version of this page.

Last modification 19.01.2011

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