Published on 1 February 2026

International law

International law governs relations between states. It facilitates international cooperation and establishes binding rules that make international relations predictable and reliable. In doing so, international law provides a key foundation for peace, stability and the protection of human beings. With increasing global interconnectedness, it is continuously developed to meet new challenges.

The Peace Palace in The Hague under a clear blue sky, a historic building with a tower hosting key international courts.

View of the interior of the West House of the Federal Government with a Swiss cross on the floor.

1 February 2026

Privileges and immunities

In Switzerland, privileged persons enjoy privileges, immunities and facilities; the extent of these is determined by customary international law, international treaties and the Host State Act. The competent authorities vary depending on the nature of the relationship.

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1 February 2026

International agreements

Treaty databases and information of Switzerland as depository.

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Image of the courtroom at the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

1 February 2026

Respect and promotion of international law

Switzerland promotes peace, stability, and international cooperation through the support of international law—in line with its values and interests.

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1 February 2026

International Human Rights Conventions

Human rights are inherent and inalienable rights that belong to all human beings, without distinction, by virtue of their humanity alone. They form the foundation of the peaceful coexistence of peoples.

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1 February 2026

International humanitarian law

International humanitarian law (IHL) is a body of rules designed to limit the effects of armed conflicts. It governs the conduct of hostilities and protects the victims of armed conflicts.

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1 February 2026

Neutrality

Switzerland’s neutrality is an instrument of the country’s security, foreign and economic policy, and thus serves to achieve the interests enshrined in the Federal Constitution.

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1 February 2026

Asset Recovery in cases of foreign politically exposed persons (PEPs)

Switzerland is committed to combating global corruption. Assets of foreign PEPs can be frozen, confiscated, and repatriated based on a comprehensive legal framework.

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Foreign policy

Documents

Contact

Directorate of International Law DIL
Federal Department of Foreign Affairs FDFA
Kochergasse 10
3003 Bern