Article 16 is a major legal-security article. It says authorities cannot disturb a person, family, home, papers, or possessions without a written order from a competent authority that explains the legal basis. It also covers arrests, searches, privacy, and personal data.

For exam purposes, Article 16 is the article of warrants, written authority, and protection against arbitrary interference. It pairs with Articles 14 and 17 as part of basic legal security.