The European flag (Part 1)

In the photo at far left, the European flag is properly hoisted. The flag on the right in the same photo, however, is upside down, as you can see from the stars. The flag in the photo below does not conform to official requirements: The top points of the five upper stars point upwards, while those of the seven lower stars point downwards. In the third photo, the stars are positioned correctly, but the appliqué on the vertical flag makes it look as though the stars are surrounded by a dark ring.

Empty flagpoles

If flags are to be hoisted on only some of the available flagpoles, then they should be hoisted on flagpoles next to each other, not leaving any empty flagpoles between them. This applies above all to displays of the European and federal (institutions) flag, which are intended to express the close relationship between the two.

Exceptions should be limited to special situations, for example at the Federal Chancellery, when various foreign flags must be hoisted in short succession on the centre of three flagpoles. Flags should always be hoisted on the flagpoles in the superior position, i.e. on the left of an observer facing the building, so that empty flagpoles will be on the right.

Foreign flags displayed on private and business premises (Part 2)

According to Section 104 of the Criminal Code, "Violation of flags and state symbols of foreign states”, (1) Whosoever removes, destroys, damages, renders unrecognizable or insults by mischief a flag of a foreign state, which is displayed according to legal provisions or recognized custom, or a state symbol of such a state which has been publicly installed by a recognized mission of such state, shall be liable to imprisonment not exceeding two years or a fine. (2) The attempt shall be punishable.” Further, the Act on Administrative Offences (OWiG) protects the coat of arms of the Swiss Confederation. According to Section 25 (2) of the Act on Administrative Offences, using the coat of arms of the Swiss Confederation without authorization constitutes an administrative offence.