Switzerland
Swiss Federal Bureau of Justice
Division of Legislative Projects and Methods, Office of Crime Victim Assistance
Bundeshaus West
3003 Bern, Switzerland
011 4131 322 4767
In October 1991, the Swiss Government enacted the Federal Law on Crime Victims Assistance to be implemented at the Cantonal (State) level. The federal law sets forth general guidelines for crime victims assistance and calls for the establishment of local counseling centers. Crime victims must seek compensation and assistance through the counseling center in the state where the crime was committed. Each state establishes its own guidelines as to the amount and kind of compensation to be awarded.
Eligibility Requirements
Report to Police: Yes
Filing Period: Within 2 years.
Claimants
Procedures
Applications must be filed with the counseling center in the canton (state) where the crime occurred.
The federal law provides for income limits unless the crime is particularly severe. If a victim's income is under the amount for social security and disability, the victim receives full compensation. If it is more than the amount, the victim's award is reduced.
Benefits & Award Limits
The amount of compensation available varies from state to state.
Compensable Costs
Emergency Awards
Crime victims can receive an advance if the victim needs immediate assistance.
Funding Sources
Information regarding funding for the Swiss compensation programs was not available at the time this directory was published.