15. What does the German Basic Law prohibit?
Official German wording
Was verbietet das deutsche Grundgesetz?
Answer options
Correct answer
Forced labor
Explanation
The Basic Law protects occupational freedom in Article 12(1) and prohibits forced labor in Article 12(2)–(3), allowing only narrow exceptions for general, equal civic service obligations and for labor in the context of judicially ordered deprivation of liberty. Military service is not prohibited; Article 12a permits conscription (suspended since 2011) and is complemented by the fundamental right to conscientious objection to armed service (Article 4(3) BL). Working abroad is not forbidden and falls within the general freedom of action (Article 2(1) BL) and, within the EU, the freedom of movement. These prohibitions align with Article 4 ECHR and ILO conventions on forced labor.
Official sources
The German questions come from the original BAMF catalog for the Einbürgerungstest and Leben in Deutschland. Translations and explanations are study aids; verify legal details in the official sources.