War, terror and violence, but also accidents and natural disasters, often lead to disturbing images and audio footage. When selecting and presenting such recordings, we are guided by the following principles:

It is not our job to provide a embellished picture of reality. Events that are shocking should be allowed to shock. An unflinching portrayal is often necessary to do justice to a situation. Sometimes such recordings are not only newsworthy, but also have a documentary character and are therefore important.  However, events involving the publication or broadcast of violent footage require a careful assessment of their relevance.

In all depictions of violence, we take care to respect the dignity of the victims and their families. Images and sounds must not be used to sensationalise events. Legal regulations must be taken into account (e.g. Art. 135 SCC and Art 4. para. 1 RTVA).

Accordingly, footage depicting violent scenes should not be shown for longer than necessary. We exercise the utmost restraint with regard to disturbing footage. Footage of dying people is not presented and deceased persons are not shown in a recognisable manner. Violent scenes are not repeated.

In controversial cases that are interpreted differently from a political perspective, it may be necessary to show an act of violence entirely. For example, a verified social media video of riots or police operations that result in violence. It’s the only way to enable the public to form their own opinion. In such cases, publication takes place in consultation with the senior editorial management. 

The SBC is also required by law to protect children and young people (see Art. 5 RTVA). Particular care must therefore be taken with programmes aimed at children and young people.

In the case of shocking or disturbing footage, users must be warned in advance by means of appropriate measures such as text passages, lead-ins or trigger warnings.

In the case of depictions of graphic violence or brutality, managers must be consulted.

Depictions of violence and other potentially problematic content – such as sexuality, drug use or self-harm – may also occur in fictional formats such as feature films and series, as well as in reports and documentaries. They are assessed in accordance with the Federal Act on the Protection of Minors in relation to Films and Video Games (PMFVA) and the associated industry guidelines.

The content is logged by the responsible editorial teams and youth protection officers of the regional units.

An age rating is published in the programme information. It influences the placement in the programme and, if applicable, the use on on-demand platforms.