Sustainable development

Sustainable development is enshrined in the Swiss Federal Constitution. Switzerland's international commitment in this regard is thus based on a solid foundation. Within this framework, the FDFA makes an important contribution to advancing the international agenda in the area of sustainable development. The FDFA was actively involved in the multilateral negotiations that led to the adoption in 2015 of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (the 2030 Agenda). Accordingly, the FDFA attaches great importance to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. This means on the one hand Switzerland's implementation of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and on the other hand promoting the implementation of the 2030 Agenda on the international stage, including participating in the associated multilateral discussions and negotiations. 

International cooperation and Geneva as a centre of competence

Part of the FDFA's work includes strengthening recognition of Switzerland at the international level. It promotes, for example, the establishment in Geneva of international institutions which are active in sustainable development.

The green economy

The green economy is an economic system that takes into account the scarcity of limited natural resources and the regenerative capacity of renewable resources, improves resource efficiency and thus enhances the performance of the economy and the overall quality of life. As a highly interconnected nation, Switzerland is aware of its responsibility. With its comparatively high level of consumption, it has a higher-than-average per capita environmental footprint. Switzerland therefore supports international efforts to promote the transition to a green economy. The Federal Council adopted its national green economy action plan in 2013.