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The Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York promotes Switzerland's interests at the UN Headquarters, in line with the country’s foreign policy goals. It participates in the work of the UN’s principal organs (General Assembly, Security Council and Economic and Social Council) as well as in the different United Nations Funds and Development Programmes

On thematic issues, Switzerland is active in all three pillars of the UN mandate: peace and security, human rights and sustainable development. The main focus of its activities is:

  • The reform of the UN system with the goal of improving its efficiency, efficacy and transparency
  • The implementation of Agenda 2030 on sustainable development
  • The promotion and the respect of human rights, gender equality and the protection of civilians
  • The strengthening of International Geneva

Switzerland held the presidency of the United Nations Security Council in May 2023

In a tense geopolitical context, Switzerland chaired more than 25 formal meetings of the Council. It sought to conduct the Council’s work in a transparent, impartial and consultative manner, and to provide timely and transparent information to the public.

During its first-ever presidency, Switzerland put the emphasis on trust, inclusiveness and the protection of civilians. For example, 54% of all briefers who addressed the Council in May were women.

The presidency of the Security Council rotates every month and is a largely ceremonial role.

Read the summary of the Swiss presidency

2030 Agenda

Beginning in 2016, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development sets the globally applicable framework for national and international efforts to find shared solutions to the world's greatest challenges.

2030 Agenda

An app for women's rights

Did you know that Switzerland has developed the Women’s Human Rights App? It can facilitate negotiations and make UN-processes more efficient! Digital technologies have the potential to signify cantly strengthen human rights. This is why the Swiss Government developed the #WsHRApp. 

Let’s realise gender equality together! 

Presentation of the app by Mr. Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

Get to know the Women’s Human Rights App

Download the app on the Play Store or on the App Store!

Pascale Baeriswyl UN Security Council New York

Switzerland is a member of the United Nations Security Council from 2023 to 2024

Since January 2023, Switzerland has been an elected member of the UN Security Council for the first time in its history. Its mandate runs until December 2024.

In line with its political objectives and the Federal Constitution, Switzerland has adopted four priorities for the two-year mandate: Building sustainable peace, protecting civilians in armed conflicts, addressing climate security and enhancing the effectiveness of the Council.

Learn more about Switzerland’s activities on the Security Council: www.aplusforpeace.ch

Accountability Coherence and Transparency Group

Accountability, Coherence and Transparency Group

ACT is a cross-regional group of 27 small and mid-sized countries working to improve the Accountability, Coherence and Transparency of the UN Security Council. Launched in May 2013, ACT addresses both the Council’s internal functioning as well as its relations to the broader UN membership.

ACT’s joint statements, position papers and other agreed texts are compiled below according to the subject matter and body they address.

Learn more

International Geneva

The city of Geneva has a long tradition of hosting international organisations. For that reason, reference is made to "International Geneva". This acknowledges not only its pivotal role in terms of cooperation but also its position at the forefront of multilateral diplomacy. Learn more