The Security Policy Strategy 2026
The State Secretariat for Security Policy (SEPOS) is responsible for the Security Policy Strategy of Switzerland, which it develops in collaboration with other federal and cantonal authorities. This strategy represents the foundation of Switzerland’s security policy.
The Security Policy Strategy 2026 describes how Switzerland’s security policy environment has drastically deteriorated and how it has become more dangerous, especially since Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Rivalries between major powers are increasing and new interest communities among states are forming. Economic dependencies and advantages are being leveraged for power-political aims. Hybrid warfare―ranging from disinformation, cyber attacks, espionage and sabotage to military force―and threats to domestic security have increased in Europe and can also affect Switzerland.
The strategy therefore identifies Switzerland’s characteristics and vulnerabilities. The rules based international order, including key values and interests of Switzerland such as the rule of law, the respect for human rights and international humanitarian law are under pressure globally. There is also growing pressure on Switzerland to take a stronger political stance. As Switzerland is surrounded by EU and NATO member states, their stability and security policy commitments also contribute to Switzerland's security. In return, these states expect Swiss contributions to European security.
Comprehensive security
To respond to the diverse range of threats and protect Switzerland, the Federal Council pursues within its security policy strategy the approach of comprehensive security. This holistic approach encompasses civilian and military means as well as actors from federal and cantonal authorities, and integrates all aspects of foreign, domestic and economic policy relevant to security policy.
Comprehensive security also entails international cooperation, which enables Switzerland to better protect itself, to strengthen its defence capabilities and to contribute to Euorpean security.
Three strategic directions– ten objectives – more than forty measures
In its security policy strategy, the Federal Council has identified three strategic directions with ten objectives. To achieve these objectives, it has defined more than forty measures.
The three strategic directions
Strengthen resilience: Firstly, vulnerabilities and critical dependencies must be reduced as far as possible to minimise Switzerland’s attack surface and potential damages. This also aims to decrease the likelihood of threats and dangers actually occuring.
Improve capabilities for resistance and protection: Secondly, the protection of the population against risks as well as domestic security must be improved. Switzerland must be better able to deter and repel potential and actual attacks and protect itself more effectively against their effects.
Strenghten defence capabilities: Thirdly, Switzerland must be able to defend itself as autonomously as possible against an armed attack. In the event of an attack, defence should be possible and prepared in cooperation with other countries.
