Switzerland and neutrality - a challenge in a globalized world

There is hardly a political issue in which the Swiss are as unanimous as they are on neutrality: 96% of the Swiss polled said they were in favor of maintaining neutrality in the annual “Security 2020” study by the Center for Security Studies . From the point of view of the study authors, neutrality has become part of the cultural identity of the Swiss population .

On closer inspection, however, there is a high level of disagreement among the population regarding the implementation of Switzerland's policy of neutrality . Foreign, security and economic policy issues such as Switzerland's membership in international organizations, cooperation with foreign armed forces or arms exports regularly cause controversial discussions.

So does it need a new definition of Swiss neutrality? We invite you to discuss the questions below with experts at the FSS Security Talk:

• What significance does the principle of neutrality under international law still have in the 21st century in view of ongoing globalization?
• How can neutrality be maintained in a globalized world with changing alliances ?
• What are the strategic and political implications of an «armed neutrality» strategy?
• How can Switzerland use its economic potential for a successful foreign trade and neutrality policy ?

We are happy with former Federal Councilor Micheline Calmy-Rey, Ambassador Pälvi Pulli , Head of Security Policy DDPS, and Prof. Dr. Oliver Diggelmann to welcome three renowned experts to the 8th FSS Security Talk. We welcome National Councilor and APK member Elisabeth Schneider-Schneiter for the subsequent panel discussions.

Here   you can download the detailed program of the event   and register. If you have any questions about this event, please send an email to: sekretariat@forum-Sicherheit-schweiz.ch