Sexuality education for children and teenagers
Educated children and youth protect themselves better against sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies. They develop healthier lifestyles too. The federal government is therefore supporting sexuality education in the cantons.
Why is sexuality education necessary?
Sexuality education plays an important role in preventing sexually transmitted infections, teenage pregnancies and sexual violence. It strengthens children’s and young people’s confidence, and enables a healthy approach towards sexuality.
Who needs sexuality education?
All children and youth in Switzerland are entitled to sexuality education. Access to up-to-date knowledge and skill-based teaching enables a healthy approach to sexuality, and contributes to preventing sexual abuse and diseases.
Who provides sexuality education?
Sexuality education forms the basis for sexual health promotion. It should begin at home and be supplemented through sexuality education in school to guarantee prevention and equal opportunity in access to relevant information. Therefore, sexuality education takes place wherever children and young people live. It may be planned or delivered without special concepts and rules, for example in day-care, a sports club or holiday camps.
Who is responsible for sexuality education?
Prevention of sexual infections, sexual abuse and protection of health are matters of public interest.
Further information
Federal Office of Public Health FOPH
Schwarzenburgstrasse 157
Switzerland - 3003 Bern