International organizations

As every year, from 22 to 25 May, a week at the UN in New York will be devoted to the protection of civilians. This is also one of Switzerland's thematic priorities for its membership of the UN Security Council. Find out how Switzerland is working in this area at the multilateral level and directly on the ground in conflict areas.

During Switzerland's presidency of the UN Security Council, the ACT Group, which advocates for an effective UN, celebrated its tenth anniversary. Within the group, Switzerland has promoted a code of conduct by which states voluntarily commit themselves not to vote against resolutions in the UN Security Council aimed at preventing or ending war crimes and crimes against humanity. 129 UN members or observers have signed it to date. This is a strong signal to the Council and should strengthen its effectiveness – a priority for Switzerland for its Council membership.

In May 2023, Switzerland will hold the presidency of the UN Security Council. Switzerland's one-month presidency will allow it to put its thematic priorities of building sustainable peace and protecting civilians at the forefront and to give impetus to the Security Council's work. What does the presidency mean for Switzerland? We provide an overview of Switzerland's powers, practices and priorities during its month-long presidency of the Security Council.

A Swiss delegation will participate in the United Nations Water Conference from 22 to 24 March. It will emphasise the importance of the transboundary management of this vital resource, which is at the heart of the country's Blue Peace initiatives beyond its borders. The latest news on Switzerland's participation in the UN 2023 Water Conference.

Since its independence in 2011, South Sudan has been the scene of armed conflicts and humanitarian crises. Almost five years ago, a peace agreement ended the war at the national level. But this peace remains fragile. Tensions persist. Switzerland is active on the ground and focusses on peace policy, development cooperation and humanitarian aid. In the UN Security Council, Switzerland supported the extension of the mandate of the UN mission in South Sudan, which plays a critical role in peace and security.

Two hundred and twenty-two million children and young people around the world are affected by violent conflicts and humanitarian crises. Switzerland is working to protect these children, in the UN Security Council as well as in other bodies and through its international cooperation work. Syrian refugee children in Jordan and Lebanon are just one example of how Switzerland is restoring access to education – a key pillar of sustainable peace and development.