All news (3707)
Switzerland to chair the OSCE in 2026
30.12.2024
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Press releases
EDA
In 2026, Switzerland will chair the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) for the third time, following its chairpersonships in 1996 and 2014. Switzerland was elected by the participating states of the organisation in a secret ballot. It will assume first executive functions already from 1 January 2025: as a member of the troika – comprising the 2024 (Malta), 2025 (Finland) and 2026 (Switzerland) chairs – it will be responsible for relations with the Mediterranean states, among other things.
Federal Council adopts its new Africa Strategy 2025–28
20.12.2024
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Press releases
EDA
At its meeting on 20 December 2024, the Federal Council adopted its new Africa strategy. For the first time, the strategy covers all regions of the continent, setting out objectives and measures that Switzerland intends to implement in the 2025–28 period. The strategy prioritises peace and security, prosperity and competitiveness, the environment, and democracy and governance. It also sets out the objective of building relations with African countries using a partnership-based approach to cooperation.
New Swiss ambassadors
20.12.2024
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Press releases
EDA
Personnel changes and the conferment of ambassadorial titles will take place in 2025 at several Swiss representations and at the head office of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) as part of the FDFA's periodic transfer rotation and on the basis of appointments made by the Federal Council.
Switzerland and the European Union welcome outcome of negotiations
20.12.2024
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Press releases
EDA
President Viola Amherd and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen met in Bern on Friday, 20 December, to mark the conclusion of negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union. They welcomed the outcome of the negotiations and discussed current issues regarding European policy and global developments.
Federal Council takes note of substantive conclusion of Swiss–EU negotiations
20.12.2024
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Press releases
EDA
At its meeting on 20 December 2024, the Federal Council took note with satisfaction the material conclusion of negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union (EU). It noted that the Swiss delegation, led by chief negotiator Patric Franzen, has met the objectives set under the negotiating mandate. The Federal Council has instructed the relevant departments to undertake the preparatory work needed to formally conclude negotiations.
Switzerland takes on protecting power mandate for Ecuador and Venezuela
19.12.2024
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Press releases
EDA
At the request of the Ecuadorian government, Switzerland will represent Ecuador's interests in relation to Venezuela. On 19 December 2024, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis signed the applicable agreement with Ecuador's ambassador to Switzerland, Verónica Bustamante Ponce. In taking on this role, Switzerland is ensuring that diplomatic and consular channels between the two countries remain open. Diplomatic relations between the two countries were severed following the Venezuelan presidential elections in July 2024. Diplomatic tensions between the two countries had been building prior to this.
Switzerland submits candidature to chair OSCE in 2026
19.12.2024
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Press releases
EDA
Today, Switzerland’s official candidature for the 2026 OSCE chairpersonship was transmitted by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis to the current OSCE chair, Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg. Numerous countries have approached Switzerland to assume the chairpersonship for a third time. Given the particularly difficult geopolitical times that currently prevail, which also pose major challenges for the OSCE, the Swiss candidature underscores the fact that the only way to bring about peaceful and sustainable solutions to crises is through dialogue and cooperation.
New winter support package for Ukraine: Switzerland helping to repair destroyed homes and energy infrastructure
18.12.2024
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Press releases
EDA
Due to the intensified Russian attacks, large parts of the Ukrainian population are suffering from cuts to power and heating. Switzerland is helping Ukraine to cope with the challenges of winter with almost CHF 45 million. The funds will be used to restore energy infrastructure, renovate damaged homes and meet urgent humanitarian needs.
Federal Council adopts updated National Action Plan to support businesses in respecting human rights
13.12.2024
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Press releases
EDA
On 13 December 2024, the Federal Council adopted the revised National Action Plan (NAP) 2024–27 on the implementation of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. This revised plan aims to address regulatory and other challenges, while supporting businesses in improving their human rights due diligence practices.
Federal Council adopts Digital Switzerland Strategy 2025
13.12.2024
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Press releases
EDA
On 13 December, the Federal Council adopted the updated Digital Switzerland Strategy for 2025 and selected new focus themes, thereby setting its current priorities.
Lebanon: Switzerland sends water and sanitation support
11.12.2024
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Press releases
EDA
Since September 2024, developments in the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel have led to the displacement of thousands of people inside Lebanon, depriving them of access to drinking water in particular. Faced with this situation, Switzerland has decided to provide additional expertise and equipment to support ongoing activities in the Bekaa Valley. The aim is to maintain equitable access to water for those affected.
Swiss diplomat Jürg Lauber elected Human Rights Council president
09.12.2024
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Press releases
EDA
Jürg Lauber, who currently heads the Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the United Nations Office and to the other international organisations in Geneva, has been elected to preside over the Human Rights Council (HRC) in 2025. The HRC is the UN's main human rights body. In October, Switzerland was re-elected to the council by the General Assembly for the 2025–27 period after an absence of six years.
