Security policy strategy 2026
The State Secretariat for Security Policy (SEPOS) is responsible for the Security Policy Strategy of Switzerland 2026, which it has developed in collaboration with other federal and cantonal authorities. This strategy represents the foundation of Switzerland’s security policy.
The Security Policy Strategy of Switzerland 2026 describes how Switzerland’s security policy environment has drastically deteriorated and to what extent 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 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.
As most threats do not stop at national borders, comprehensive security also entails international cooperation. This enables Switzerland to protect itself better, strengthen its defence capabilities, and contribute to European security.
Three strategic directions– ten objectives – forty-six measures
In its security policy strategy, the Federal Council has identified three strategic directions with ten objectives. To achieve these objectives, it has defined forty-six measures.
The three strategic directions
Strengthening resilience: Vulnerabilities and critical dependencies must be reduced, and the resilience of the state, the economy and society is to be boosted.
Improving capabilities for resistance and protection so that civilians, institutions and critical infrastructure are better protected against threats and dangers, and attacks can be repelled more effictively.
Strengthening defence capabilities so that Switzerland can effectively counter an armed attack and ensure that the necessary capabilities, as well as cooperation with partner states, are set up in good time.
Prioritisation and implementation
Switzerland must prepare for an unstable and volatile global environment. While it is difficult to assess the likelihood of specific scenarios, a direct, armed attack on Switzerland is unlikely in the foreseeable future. However, Switzerland could still be subject to an attack using long-range weapons, such as drones and guided ballistic missiles. The strategy therefore prioritises measures to counter the most likely threats such as combatting hybrid threats, defending against long-range attacks, and tackling organised crime in the area of domestic security.
The lead department and the federal authorities involved have been designated for each objective in the Security Policy Strategy of Switzerland 2026. Where appropriate and necessary, the cantons, the private sector, academia, associations and the general public are involved in the implementation.
In view of the current threat situation, the Federal Council had instructed the relevant departments to implement the proposed measures right from the start of the consultation process, and to plan an monitoring system for this purpose. The State Secretariat for Security Policy (SEPOS) is coordinating the implementation work. A steering committee was set up for this purpose, comprising representatives from the federal authorities and cantonal conferences involved. The Federal Council will receive an implementation progress report by the end of 2028.