Organisation and history of the FDFA
The FDFA, headed by Ignazio Cassis, determines and coordinates Swiss foreign policy on behalf of the Federal Council. The FDFA consists of the organisational units at head office in Bern and Switzerland’s external network.
The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) determines and coordinates Swiss foreign policy on behalf of the Federal Council, pursues the set foreign policy objectives, safeguards Switzerland’s national interests and promotes Swiss values. Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis took office as head of the FDFA on 1 November 2017.
The FDFA has some 170 representations around the world. This external network includes embassies, permanent missions to international organisations, consulates and cooperation offices
The FDFA head office in Bern is home to the General Secretariat, State Secretariat and four directorates.
Documents
Head of Department Ignazio Cassis
Welcome to the FDFA! Message from Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, his speeches and the milestones of his political and professional career in brief.
General Secretariat
The General Secretariat coordinates business for Parliament and the Federal Council and is responsible for the FDFA's communication and information.
State Secretariat
The State Secretariat is responsible for implementing the Federal Council's Foreign Policy Strategy and the geographical and thematic follow-up strategies. In this regard, the State Secretariat coordinates European policy and foreign policy activities within the FDFA and between the departments.
Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation
The SDC is responsible for the overall coordination of development cooperation alongside other federal offices, as well as for Swiss humanitarian aid.
Consular Directorate
The Consular Directorate – your central point of contact for client-friendly consular services worldwide.
Directorate of International Law
The Directorate of International Law is responsible for promoting and upholding international law.
Directorate for Resources
The Directorate for Resources ensures the availability and management of resources within the FDFA, helping senior management meet its objectives by ensuring the effective use of resources.
Swiss representations abroad
Official Swiss representations abroad safeguard Switzerland's various interests.
History of the FDFA
Since 1848, the FDFA has developed from a political department into a central institution of Swiss foreign policy.
Contact
General Secretariat GS-FDFA
Federal Palace West
3003 Bern