Switzerland formally abolished the death penalty after a protracted debate spanning over two centuries. While Enlightenment-era philosophers began questioning capital punishment in the 1700s, executions persisted well into the 20th century. The final civilian execution within Switzerland occurred in 1940, marking a turning point in the nation's legal history. Subsequently, the death penalty was removed from standard criminal law in 1942, and later from military law in 1992. This gradual process reflects a shifting societal view on justice and punishment within Switzerland. The abolition signifies a complete removal of capital punishment from the Swiss legal system, cemented by the nation’s new federal constitution.