Combating influence activities and disinformation
With growing uncertainty in Europe and global geopolitical tensions, the threat posed by influence activities – which include disinformation – has intensified.
The threat posed by influence activities and disinformation has intensified in recent years. Switzerland, its society, economy and authorities are also increasingly confronted with this threat. Influence activities and disinformation are particularly relevant to security policy when they originate from states and aim to undermine the functioning and democratic order of another state. This is what distinguishes influence activities from open and legitimate advocacy, which contributes to the formation of public opinion.
In collaboration with other federal agencies, SEPOS has drafted a report for the Federal Council on influence activities and disinformation. The report sets out the extent to which Switzerland is affected by these and how it can protect itself against them. The Federal Council has adopted measures against influence activities, which are currently being implemented. Among other things, an interdepartmental working group on influence activities and disinformation has been established.
Interdepartmental Working Group IDWG on Influence Activities and Disinformation
The IDWG coordinates the work of the Federal Administration on this issue and will also strengthen national and international cooperation in order to counter influence activities and disinformation even more effectively. It is also tasked with developing an understanding of the situation in Switzerland and current developments. Based on this, it can, where necessary, propose measures to political decision-makers aimed at prevention, strengthening resilience or defending against attacks. Furthermore, it contributes to raising awareness among authorities and, where appropriate, the general public. The IDWG is led by the State Secretariat for Security Policy SEPOS.
Relation to the Security Policy Strategy of Switzerland 2026
Countering hybrid threats, which include influence activities, and strengthening the resilience of society and the state are also key priorities of Switzerland’s new Security Policy Strategy. The strategy was drawn up under the direction of SEPOS and is currently out for consultation.