Choosing work rather than being compelled to do it.
An occupation shapes a large part of life. Article 12(1) protects Germans’ freedom to choose an occupation, workplace and training institution. That explains why “free choice of occupation” is not the prohibition this question asks for.
The following paragraphs address compulsory labour. Paragraph 2 begins by prohibiting forcing someone to perform a particular kind of work. Paragraph 3 permits forced labour only in the course of court-ordered deprivation of liberty. That precise wording matters more than a mnemonic that hides every exception.
The other three answers
The other options do not identify an activity generally prohibited by the Basic Law.
Military service
Military service is not generally prohibited. Article 12a provides for service duties, while Article 4 protects conscientious refusal of armed military service. The current statutory arrangements are a separate question.
Free choice of occupation
Free choice of occupation is the freedom protected in Article 12(1). Choosing it as a prohibition would reverse the provision’s meaning.
Working abroad
The Basic Law does not generally prohibit working abroad. The destination country’s immigration and employment rules are separate matters.
Learn the express exceptions too.
Article 12(2) permits traditional public-service duties that are general and equal for all. Paragraph 3 contains the exception for court-ordered deprivation of liberty. Article 12a adds specific service provisions.
These provisions do not create open permission to force people into arbitrary work. Implementing such duties remains subject to law. The question tests the principle, not an assertion of “no exceptions” or a decision about a specific employment or benefit case.
Article 12 · Basic Law ↗Occupational freedom protects. Forced labour is the prohibition sought.
Keep the principle separate from its express exceptions. Do not automatically equate military service with the prohibition sought.
Three words for this question
- die Zwangsarbeitforced labour
- Compelled labour; Article 12(3) states a specific exception.
- die Berufswahlchoice of occupation
- Choosing the occupation one wishes to train for or pursue.
- die Dienstpflichtduty of service
- A legally regulated obligation to perform a particular service.