8th FSS Security Talk | Switzerland and Neutrality, August 31, 2021
Is Switzerland's neutrality a bonus or an obstacle in a globalized world? When is it necessary for a neutral country to become active? These and other questions were addressed by renowned experts such as Prof. Dr. Oliver Diggelmann (University of Zurich), Micheline Calmy-Ray (former Federal Councillor), Pälvi Pulli (DDPS), Dr. Thomas Greminger (Geneva Center for Security Research) and Elisabeth Schneider-Schneiter (National Councillor, Die Mitte) at the 8th FSS Security Talk at the Hotel Schweizerhof in Berne.
The input speeches and the subsequent panel discussion allowed for a highly interesting exchange between experts and practitioners on the past, present and future challenges of Swiss neutrality. Neutrality remains one of the most important pillars of Swiss foreign policy. However, the experts' remarks made clear that neutrality or "sitting still and keeping one's distance" from conflicts in a geostrategically changing and globalized world is no longer an option. Neutrality does not automatically offer protection in international conflicts and against the adversities of a disruptive and complex world. As a small political state and an economic middle power, Switzerland is constantly challenged to shape its "foreign policies" actively and wisely. This includes not only foreign and foreign economic policy, but also other topics and policy areas such as security, peace policy, development cooperation, energy and environmental issues, and so on. In all these areas, Switzerland brings an enormous amount of know-how and experience, but also the necessary resources, including financial means, which are well invested. Former Federal Councillor Micheline Calmy-Rey aptly summed up the discussion: "Neutrality is a bonus for Switzerland. But the issues and activities involved demand a much higher degree of constant reflection, creative will and commitment than before!"
With this positive conclusion, the highly exciting 8th FSS Security Talk ended with 90 interested guests and a gratifying number of young participants.
A detailed summary report can be found here (German).
You can find a detailed program here.
Photo gallery (Photographer: Daniel Saxer):
