Media releases
SEPOS
State Secretary for Security Policy hosts Moldovan counterpart for security policy dialogue
Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will host Moldovan State Secretary Ghenadie Cojocaru on 9 July 2026 for the second security policy dialogue between the two defence ministries. The talks will focus on the deteriorated security situation in Europe, hybrid threats as well as on multilateral and bilateral cooperation.
G7 in Évian: Federal Council approves Franco-Swiss military cooperation document
To ensure security at the G7 summit, which is being hosted by France in Évian from 15 to 17 June, the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) and the French Ministry of the Armed Forces and Veterans’ Affairs have drawn up a Joint Procedural Document (JPD). This document sets out the framework for military cooperation between Switzerland and France during the summit. Its purpose is to ensure the smooth running of any joint activities, particularly on Lake Geneva and in the airspace, thereby contributing to security. The Federal Council approved it at its meeting on 5 June. The Federal Council approved it at its meeting on 5 June, adding to the measures taken in preparation for the summit.
State Secretary for Security Policy visits the Multinational Force and Observers in Egypt
Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will travel to Egypt from 3 to 4 June. The purpose of the official trip is to visit the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO), an international organisation based in Sharm El-Sheikh. Switzerland has provided funding to the MFO since 1995, thereby contributing to stability in the Sinai and upholding of the Egyptian-Israeli peace treaty.
Federal Councillor Martin Pfister to attend the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore
Federal Councillor Martin Pfister will attend the Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD) in Singapore from 29 to 31 May. The international security conference will focus on geopolitical developments and issues relating to international stability.
State Secretary for Security Policy attending Civil Defence Forum in Stockholm
State Secretary Markus Mäder represents the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport at the Civil Defence Forum in Stockholm on 21 and 22 April. This conference is dedicated to comprehensive security and the resilience of society in the face of hybrid warfare.
State Secretary for Security Policy in Washington, D.C., for exchange on security and defence policy
On 25 February 2026, talks will take place between the Swiss and US defence ministries in Washington, D.C. Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will lead the Swiss delegation. The exchange aims at discussing the security situation and bilateral cooperation. The focus will be on the security policy situation in Europe and current developments in transatlantic relations.
Switzerland to step up its commitment to the peace support mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2027
At its meeting on 18 February, the Federal Council adopted a dispatch to Parliament that provides for a temporary increase in Switzerland's contribution: in 2027, an additional 12 armed military personnel will be deployed to the multinational European Union Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina (EUFOR ALTHEA). They will assist with transport tasks and staff work. Against the backdrop of political crises in the country, the EUFOR ALTHEA mission plays a key role in stabilisation. Switzerland's contribution will allow it to support the EU's stabilisation efforts in a region that is important to Switzerland. The deployment of armed personnel must now be approved by Parliament.
Federal Councillors Martin Pfister, Ignazio Cassis and Beat Jans to attend the Munich Security Conference
Federal Councillors Martin Pfister, Ignazio Cassis and Beat Jans will attend the Munich Security Conference (MSC 26) from 13 to 15 February. In a rapidly changing security environment, this conference offers an opportunity for high-level discussions on how to strengthen Europe's security. It also provides a platform for promoting values such as peace and the rule of law.
Early warning of threats: Federal Council wants to strengthen exchange of air situation data with partners
The Federal Council wants to further enhance protection against airborne threats. At its meeting on 11 February, it decided to enter into negotiations to extend or conclude new international agreements on the exchange of air situation data. This will enable Switzerland to receive timely warnings of potential threats – even before they reach its own airspace – and so gain valuable advance warning time for the population and the Armed Forces.
State Secretary for Security Policy in London for security policy dialogue
Talks between the Swiss and UK defence ministries will take place in London on 6 February. Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will head the Swiss delegation. The purpose of this dialogue is to strengthen bilateral cooperation on security policy. The discussions will focus on current developments in Europe and transatlantic relations.
Deputy State Secretary for Security Policy attends Summit on Responsible Use of AI in the Military Domain in Spain
The third Summit on Responsible Use of AI in the Military Domain (REAIM) will take place in A Coruña, Spain, from 4 to 5 February 2026. Deputy State Secretary for Security Policy, Pälvi Pulli, is heading the Swiss delegation.
G7 summit in Evian: Armed Forces support service and restriction on the use of airspace
At its meeting on 28 January, the Federal Council approved the deployment of the Armed Forces in a supporting role to assist the civilian authorities with security measures during the G7 summit to be held in Évian-les-Bains, France, from 15 to 17 June. This deployment, which is subsidiary in nature, complements the security measures put in place by the civilian authorities. Parliament will vote on the deployment at its next session in March.
Cooperation between Switzerland and NATO: The objectives defined for the period from 2025 to 2028
Switzerland and NATO have defined the objectives of their cooperation for the period from 2025 to 2028. The Individually Tailored Partnership Programme (ITPP) is drawn up within the framework of NATO's Partnership for Peace (PfP), in which Switzerland has been participating since 1996. The agreed activities are in line with the Federal Council's intention to intensify international cooperation in security policy.
Comprehensive approach to security: Federal Council launches consultation on Switzerland's security policy strategy
In light of the deteriorating security situation, the Federal Council is realigning Switzerland's security policy for the coming years. To this end, it has developed a security policy strategy that incorporates the resources of both the federal government and the cantons. The Federal Council intends to address the heightened threat level by strengthening Switzerland's resilience, improving protection and prevention measures, and enhancing the country's defence capabilities. At its meeting on 12 December, it launched the consultation procedure and instructed the relevant departments to start implementation.
Security policy talks between Switzerland and Austria
Talks are taking place on 11 December in Vienna between the Swiss and Austrian defence ministries. The purpose of this dialogue is to strengthen bilateral cooperation on security policy. The discussions will focus on current developments in Europe and transatlantic relations.
State Secretary Mäder attends Halifax International Security Forum
Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will represent the DDPS at the Halifax International Security Forum in Canada from 21 to 23 November.
Procurement of electronic warfare equipment: Federal Council approves accession to the SAWFISH Memorandum of Understanding
At its meeting on 5 November, the Federal Council approved Switzerland's accession to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Netherlands and Germany on the procurement of and ongoing support for electronic warfare equipment, known as the Sawfish MoU. This allows Switzerland to participate in joint procurements and benefit from an exchange of information with the other two countries and from the experience they have gained in relation to electronic warfare.
State Secretary for Security Policy to meet with Singapore’s Permanent Secretary (Defence)
Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will receive Singapore’s Permanent Secretary (Defence) Chan Heng Kee in Bern on 21 October 2025. They will discuss current security policy developments and challenges and visit the National Emergency Operations Centre.
Training cooperation with Colorado National Guard: DDPS to participate in State Partnership Program with US
At its meeting on 12 September, the Federal Council approved a memorandum of understanding that launches a partnership between the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport and the Colorado National Guard under the State Partnership Program. The purpose of this partnership is to facilitate training cooperation, allowing the Swiss Armed Forces to expand their capabilities through international collaboration and strengthen their defence readiness. It also fosters closer cooperation with the US in areas beyond the military, thereby deepening bilateral relations in general.
State Secretary for Security Policy to travel to Chisinau for security policy dialogue with Moldova
Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will hold talks on current security policy developments and bilateral cooperation with his counterparts in Chisinau (Moldova) from 17 to 18 July.
Federal Councillor Martin Pfister to make working visit to Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina
The head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), Federal Councillor Martin Pfister, will visit Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina on 7 and 8 July. He will be accompanied by members of the parliamentary Security Policy Committee and by Philippe Müller, a member of the cantonal government and head of the Department of Cantonal Security in the Canton of Bern. The aim of the working visit is to gain an overview of the security situation and Switzerland's role in peacekeeping operations. In addition to visiting Swiss Armed Forces personnel, Federal Councillor Pfister will hold bilateral talks with defence ministers Ejup Maqedonci (Kosovo) and Zukan Helez (Bosnia and Herzegovina) as well as with Christian Schmidt, High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Mr Pfister will be accompanied by Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy.
“Switzerland's Security 2025”: Global confrontation has direct effects on Switzerland
The security situation around Switzerland is deteriorating year by year. A global confrontation is emerging, with the USA on one side and China and Russia on the other. This has direct implications for Switzerland: the threat of espionage is high and proliferation activities are increasing. The terrorist threat remains elevated. Particularly concerning is the growing online radicalization of youth. In its new situation report “Switzerland's Security 2025,” the Federal Intelligence Service (FIS) assesses the threat landscape facing the country.
Cyberattack on Radix: Federal Administration data also affected
The foundation Radix has been targeted by a ransomware attack, during which data was stolen and encrypted. Radix’s customers include various federal offices. The data has been published on the dark web and will now be analysed by the relevant offices.
Security and defence partnership: Federal Council to seek exploratory talks with the EU
At its meeting on 25 June 2025, the Federal Council decided to enter into exploratory talks with the EU with a view to concluding a security and defence partnership. These partnerships provide the EU with a framework for enhancing cooperation with third countries in this field. A security and defence partnership takes the form of non-legally-binding declaration of intent and can be designed individually. A partnership of this kind is a prerequisite for any joint procurements in the defence sector. It is compatible with neutrality and helps to strengthen Switzerland's defence capabilities.
Federal Council approves armaments policy strategy
The deteriorating security situation calls for a rethink of Switzerland's armaments policy. At its meeting on 20 June 2025, the Federal Council therefore approved its first armaments policy strategy, which aims to maintain the remaining defence-critical industrial base in Switzerland and strengthen the broader technology and industrial base relevant to national security. In addition, research, development and innovation for the further development of the Swiss Armed Forces are to be expanded and Switzerland's international armaments cooperation intensified.
State Secretary for Security Policy and Chief of the Armed Forces to take part in the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore
From 30 May to 1 June, representatives from the Asia-Pacific region, North America, Europe and the Middle East will exchange views on current security policy challenges at the International Institute for Strategic Studies Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD) in Singapore. Switzerland will be represented by Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, and Lieutenant General Thomas Süssli, Chief of the Armed Forces.
Federal Councillor Martin Pfister to attend UN Peacekeeping Ministerial in Berlin
On 13 May, Federal Councillor Martin Pfister, Head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), will attend the United Nations (UN) Peacekeeping Ministerial conference in Berlin. Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will also attend. The conference will focus on issues in security policy and international cooperation on future peacekeeping activities. On the fringes of the conference, Mr Pfister will meet with German defence minister Boris Pistorius and Italian defence minister Guido Crosetto.
Switzerland to take part in NATO crisis management exercise (CMX25)
Switzerland, represented by federal offices from the DDPS and the FDFA, is taking part in NATO's crisis management exercise (CMX25), which runs from 13 to 18 March. The exercise will enable Switzerland to strengthen its cooperation while practising crisis management within an international framework.
Federal Council adopts Digital Switzerland Strategy 2025
On 13 December, the Federal Council adopted the updated Digital Switzerland Strategy for 2025 and selected new focus themes, thereby setting its current priorities.
Federal Council to evaluate legal form of RUAG MRO
At its meeting on 27 November, the Federal Council decided to evaluate the possibility of converting RUAG MRO Holding AG (RUAG MRO) into a public-law entity. The DDPS will now examine various options and prepare a bill for consultation on the revision of the Federal Act on Federal Armaments Companies by end of May 2025.
Federal Council appoints Jürg Rötheli as chairman of RUAG MRO’s board of directors
At its meeting on 27 November, the Federal Council appointed Jürg Rötheli as Chairman of the Board of Directors of RUAG MRO Holding AG (RUAG MRO). Mr Rötheli will take up his position on 1 January 2025.
Federal Council to develop Armaments Policy Strategy
The continuing deterioration in the security situation calls for a revision of the existing armaments policy and for the Federal Council to exercise greater strategic control. At its meeting on 27 November, the Federal Council therefore instructed the DDPS to develop an Armaments Policy Strategy to be adopted by mid-2025.
State Secretary for Security Policy to attend Halifax International Security Forum
Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, will represent Switzerland at the Halifax International Security Forum in Canada from 22 to 24 November. He will be discussing current security policy developments and challenges with experts in the field and hold a number of bilateral talks.
Federal Council approves Swiss participation in NATO crisis management exercise
At its meeting on 20 November 2024, the Federal Council approved Switzerland’s participation in a NATO exercise that focuses on crisis management. The exercise will take place in spring 2025.
President Amherd and Federal Councillor Parmelin receive Swedish Minister for Civil Defence Bohlin in Bern
On 12 November, President Viola Amherd, head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) and Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER), will receive Sweden’s Minister for Civil Defence Carl-Oskar Bohlin in Bern for an exchange on current security policy issues.
« Switzerland's Security 2024 »: The Federal Intelligence Service publishes its latest situation report
Switzerland's security environment continues to deteriorate from year to year. Of the strategic patterns currently emerging, the closer military cooperation between a group of Eurasian autocracies is one of the most concerning. The Federal Intelligence Service’s (FIS) abilities to anticipate, identify and assess in time threats and developments that are of strategic importance to Switzerland are crucial for taking preventive measures. The latest FIS situation report presents the main developments in intelligence over the past year.
Switzerland signs declaration of accession to the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI)
After the member states of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI) agreed to Switzerland’s application for admission, Chief of Armament Urs Loher signed the MoU and the unilateral declaration of accession by Switzerland on 17 October 2024. Switzerland will thus become the 15th member of the ESSI.
Humanitarian mine clearance: Confederation establishes comprehensive partnership with Ukraine’s civil protection service and Swiss mine clearance company
In order to reduce the danger posed by mines and other explosive ordnance in Ukraine, the Swiss government is supporting Ukraine’s civil protection service through a partnership with the Swiss company Global Clearance Solutions (GCS). The partnership involves supplying three mine clearance systems to Ukraine alongside a comprehensive training, mentoring and logistics package. The package, which amounts to CHF 4.6 million, is being funded by the federal government and underlines the importance of humanitarian mine clearance for the country’s recovery.
International appeal for humanitarian demining in Ukraine adopted in Lausanne
The first day of the Ukraine Mine Action Conference 2024 ended today with the presentation of the Lausanne Call for Action, which reaffirms the support of the majority of the countries present for humanitarian demining in Ukraine and around the world. The appeal calls for the needs of victims and disabled people to be addressed and promoting partnership and innovation to increase effectiveness in mine action. The conference, held in Lausanne at the EHL Hospitality Business School, brings together representatives of states, international organisations and partners in humanitarian demining.
State Secretary for Security Policy and Chief of the Armed Forces to attend Warsaw Security Forum
On 1 and 2 October, experts from Europe and North America will exchange views on current security policy developments and challenges at the Warsaw Security Forum (WSF). Switzerland will be represented at the event by Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, and Thomas Süssli, Chief of the Armed Forces.
2024 National Cybersecurity Conference: focus on geopolitics and operational security
Cyberthreats play an important role in today's tense geopolitical climate, but they have long been an everyday risk for businesses and governments. The National Cybersecurity Conference held today highlighted how a comprehensive approach can be taken to tackle cyberthreats. In her opening remarks, President Viola Amherd stated that the foundations for cybersecurity are now in place so that emphasis can now be placed on setting strategic priorities. The conference, organised by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the Swiss Security Network (SSN), was attended by over 280 participants from business, science, and cantonal and federal offices.
State Secretary Mäder to attend REAIM Summit and visit the NNSC in the Republic of Korea
On 9 and 10 September, State Secretary Markus Mäder will represent Switzerland at the Summit on Responsible Use of AI in the Military Domain (REAIM 2024) in Seoul. Subsequently the State Secretary will visit the Swiss officers stationed in the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission (NNSC).
Federal Council approves Switzerland's participation in two PESCO projects
At its meeting on 21 August, the Federal Council approved Switzerland's participation in two EU Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) projects. The two projects, Military Mobility and Cyber Ranges Federation, offer the opportunity to expand international cooperation between armed forces. This will strengthen Switzerland's national defence capability. Switzerland’s work on the projects will be carried out in accordance with its neutrality obligations.
“D-A-CH” meeting on the security policy situation
President Viola Amherd, head of the DDPS, is attending the annual high-level meeting of the defence ministers of Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The meeting takes place on 2 and 3 July in Vienna.
International training course on assistance and protection against chemical warfare agents and toxic industrial chemicals
Trainers from the NBC EOD Centre of Competence will teach the basics of chemical emergency survival to 25 representatives from States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). The State Secretariat for Security Policy (SEPOS) is coordinating the course in cooperation with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).
Influence activities and disinformation: Federal Council emphasises resilience and strengthens analysis and coordination
At its meeting on 19 June, the Federal Council approved the report in fulfilment of postulate 22.3006, submitted by the National Council Security Policy Committee, on the threat posed to Switzerland by disinformation campaigns. The report sets out the extent to which Switzerland is affected by influence activities in the information space, which specific Swiss characteristics are relevant in this context and what additional measures the Federal Council intends to take to counter these threats.
Cooperation on military training: Slovenia and Switzerland sign agreement
The head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports, President Viola Amherd, and Slovenian Defence Minister Marjan Šarec signed an agreement in Bern on 10 June to strengthen cooperation on military training. The talks also focused on the current security situation in the Middle East, Ukraine and the Western Balkans.
State Secretary for Security Policy and Chief of the Armed Forces to attend Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore
From 31 May to 2 June, the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) will bring together representatives from the security sector from the Asia-Pacific region, North America, Europe and the Middle East at the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue to discuss current security policy challenges in Asia. Switzerland will be represented at the security summit by State Secretary for Security Policy Markus Mäder and Chief of the Armed Forces Thomas Süssli.
High-level conference on peace in Ukraine: military support and airspace restriction
At its meeting on 22 May, the Federal Council approved a temporary restriction on the use of airspace during the high-level conference on peace in Ukraine, which Switzerland will be hosting on 15 and 16 June at the Bürgenstock resort in the canton of Nidwalden. The Swiss Air Force will provide air policing and advanced air surveillance services. The Armed Forces will also set up a subsidiary support service to complement the security measures of the cantonal authorities.
Federal Council decides to join the European Sky Shield Initiative
By participating in the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), Switzerland is increasing its international cooperation opportunities. At its meeting on 10 April, the Federal Council approved the declaration of accession to the ESSI Cooperative Procurement Framework Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The focus of the cooperation is on better coordination of procurement projects, training and logistical aspects in the area of ground-based air defence.