Federal Department of Foreign Affairs FDFA

Peace and human rights

A man and a woman are holding brochures.

Peace and human rights 27.03.2025

A new dawn for justice: Zimbabwe bids farewell to the Death Penalty

In December 2024, Zimbabwe took a historic step by abolishing the death penalty, reaffirming its commitment to human rights. This milestone was achieved through years of advocacy, with Switzerland—through its Embassy in Harare—playing a key role in guiding discussions and fostering dialogue.

Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis sits at the horseshoe-shaped table of the UN Security Council. In front of him is a wooden sign with the inscription "President".

International organizations 14.03.2025

Switzerland’s seat on the UN Security Council

In 2023 and 2024, Switzerland held a seat on the UN Security Council. A two-year term of office marked by geopolitical tensions. In spite of these challenging conditions, Switzerland was able to make an impact and contribute to advancing its foreign policy goals. Scroll the newsticker for background information about Switzerland's Security Council activities and statements.

Photo taken at the Geneva Consultations.

Peace and human rights 14.02.2025

Innovations from International Geneva for UN Peacebuilding

Switzerland is strengthening the link between Geneva and New York in UN peacebuilding through the Geneva Consultations. As a centre for diplomacy and innovation, International Geneva is providing important impetus for the 2025 Peacebuilding Architecture Review, with a focus on sustainable peacebuilding financing and linking human rights to conflict prevention.

Image showing eight athletes on a racetrack, symbolising the world of sport.

FDFA 13.12.2024

National action plan on business and human rights 2024–27

On 13 December 2024, the Federal Council adopted the updated national action plan on business and human rights ('NAP'). Existing measures have been strengthened and updated and 10 new measures added, which are intended to help achieve the objectives of the NAP.

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Peace and human rights Life and travel abroad Europe Migration Development and Cooperation International organizations COVID-19 Security Policy Science-Diplomacy Foreign policy FDFA Statements Humanitarian aid Bilateral relations

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