Peace and human rights

The world has not faced such a large number of conflicts since the end of the Second World War. One of these has been ongoing in Sudan for over two years, with catastrophic consequences for the civilian population. More than half of the population is now affected by hunger. Millions of people have been displaced. Switzerland is committed, within the framework of its international cooperation, peace promotion and within the UN, to ending the war and mitigating its humanitarian consequences.

From quiet rooms in Geneva to talks in faraway conflict zones: how Switzerland acts as an impartial mediator on the world stage and contributes to peace.

In December 2024, Zimbabwe took a historic step by abolishing the death penalty, reaffirming its commitment to human rights. This milestone was achieved through years of advocacy, with Switzerland—through its Embassy in Harare—playing a key role in guiding discussions and fostering dialogue.

In 2023 and 2024, Switzerland held a seat on the UN Security Council. A two-year term of office marked by geopolitical tensions. In spite of these challenging conditions, Switzerland was able to make an impact and contribute to advancing its foreign policy goals. Scroll the newsticker for background information about Switzerland's Security Council activities and statements.

Switzerland is strengthening the link between Geneva and New York in UN peacebuilding through the Geneva Consultations. As a centre for diplomacy and innovation, International Geneva is providing important impetus for the 2025 Peacebuilding Architecture Review, with a focus on sustainable peacebuilding financing and linking human rights to conflict prevention.

On 13 December 2024, the Federal Council adopted the updated national action plan on business and human rights ('NAP'). Existing measures have been strengthened and updated and 10 new measures added, which are intended to help achieve the objectives of the NAP.