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Published on 1 February 2026

Foreign policy

Switzerland is committed worldwide to peace, security and sustainable development. Through its foreign policy, it strengthens dialogue between states and safeguards Switzerland’s interests and values abroad.

Foreign policy: strategies and key aspects

Switzerland's foreign policy is based on interests and values enshrined in the Federal Constitution. Strategic framework plans ensure consistency and are updated every legislative period.

Switzerland and Europe

Relations with the EU and its member states are at the heart of Switzerland's European policy.

Peace and Human Rights

Promoting peace and human rights is a priority of Swiss foreign policy.

International organisations

For over 150 years, Switzerland has hosted numerous international organizations. Geneva is a global center of cooperation.

International Geneva

Switzerland is strengthening International Geneva – a hub of multilateralism where humanitarian values, innovation and global solutions come together.

International law

International law creates binding rules for states, ensures peace and stability, and is continuously evolving with increasing global interconnectedness.

Security policy

Switzerland is actively committed to disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control, through its engagement in international organisations and security policy partnerships.

Science, environment and health in foreign policy

The FDFA works with the other departments in key foreign policy areas and proactively supports them with its expertise.

The financial centre and the economy

Switzerland promotes a stable, innovative and sustainable financial centre that implements global standards and is actively involved in international bodies.

Protocol matters

Foreign diplomats represent their home country's political, economic, cultural and military interests in Switzerland.

Communication abroad

Communication abroad contributes to safeguarding Switzerland’s interests abroad using various public-relations tools. Presence Switzerland is responsible for implementing Switzerland's communication abroad.