From the Ukraine Recovery Conference in July 2022 in Lugano to the Summit on Peace in Ukraine in June 2024 on the Bürgenstock: Switzerland is committed to a peaceful solution to the war and is fully behind the political process of Ukraine's recovery. It is also implementing a variety of measures to help support people affected by the war. More on Switzerland's work in Ukraine in the newsfeed.
Greater involvement for the private sector in Ukraine's recovery process (image: recently destroyed Antonivskyi Bridge near Kherson). © Keystone
At its meeting on 4 September 2024, the Federal Council appointed Jacques Gerber to act as Federal Council Delegate for Ukraine. Mr Gerber, who is currently councillor of state for the canton of Jura, will carry out preparatory work for and manage the Federal Council's consolidated 'Ukraine country programme'. The 51-year-old will take up his new post on 1 January 2025.
Over the next twelve years (by 2036), the Federal Council intends to provide CHF 5 billion in support to Ukraine and the wider region, including CHF 1.5 billion for the 2025–28 period. On 26 June 2024, the Federal Council reaffirmed that Switzerland's private sector should play a key role in Ukraine's recovery efforts. With a stimulus programme providing CHF 500 million in funding over a four-year period, the Federal Council intends to create incentives for private investment in Ukraine recovery efforts by Swiss companies, thus ensuring visible 'Swissness'. Ukrainian refugees receiving skills training in Switzerland may also subsequently provide expertise to help rebuild Ukraine. The funds will come from the CHF 1.5 billion earmarked for Ukraine in the International Cooperation Strategy 2025–28, with CHF 1 billion to be used for traditional IC activities and CHF 500 million for the stimulus programme.
Press release: Jacques Gerber appointed Federal Council Delegate for Ukraine, 04.09.2024
During their meeting on the Brissago Islands in Ticino, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis and Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani signed a joint declaration in which they reaffirm that Switzerland and Italy will remain in close contact to jointly create the best possible conditions for a second peace summit involving the parties, including Russia, and all interested global players. To this end, they have invited the international players to spare no effort to arrive at a common negotiating platform based on respect for international law and the principles of territorial integrity and independence of states enshrined in the UN Charter.
Mr Cassis thanked Mr Tajani and Giorgia Meloni, the Italian prime minister, for taking part in the Summit on Peace in Ukraine at the Bürgenstock resort, which enabled the first steps towards a peace process to be taken.
Joint Declaration by Switzerland and Italy on Ukraine (PDF, 1 Page, 148.5 kB, Italian)
The UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution reiterating the need to preserve nuclear safety in Ukraine and in particular the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant. The resolution was submitted by Ukraine to vote. Switzerland voted in favour of the resolution in New York. It is in line with Switzerland's long-standing commitment to nuclear security and the Summit on Peace in Ukraine at the Bürgenstock.
The resolution calls on the parties to the conflict to fully implement the five principles of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which contribute to the protection of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant. The Director General of the IAEA, Rafael Mariano Grossi, presented these principles to the UN Security Council on 30 May 2023 under the chairmanship of Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis. They read as follows:
The text of the resolution also calls on Russia to immediately cease its military aggression and completely withdraw its troops from the internationally recognised territory of Ukraine. In addition, the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant should be returned to Ukrainian control to allow the IAEA to safely and effectively verify the safety and security measures of the nuclear power plant.
The resolution calls on all parties to the conflict to strictly comply with international humanitarian law and recalls that attacks must not be directed against civilians or civilian objects and that nuclear power plants enjoy special protection. The risks posed by a nuclear power plant incident in a war zone threaten the civilian population in Ukraine and other countries. Their protection must be a top priority.
The Bürgenstock Communiqué, agreed by a majority of participating states during the Summit on Peace in Ukraine, states that any use of nuclear energy must be safe and secure and that Ukrainian nuclear facilities must be under the full control of Ukraine in accordance with the principles of the IAEA. This key element, which was defined at the Bürgenstock alongside two others as a foundation for building trust and a future peace process, is mentioned in the General Assembly resolution.
At the UN Security Council, Switzerland strongly condemned the recent Russian air strikes in the night of 8 July. The attacks resulted in deaths and injuries throughout Ukraine, and the impact of a missile on the largest paediatric clinic in Kyiv once again made girls and boys victims of Russia's military aggression, which has been ongoing for over two years. According to the UN, nearly 2,000 children have been killed or injured since 24 February. "International law, in particular human rights and humanitarian law, must be strictly respected by all parties, and in this context we call on Russia to comply with it and to protect the civilian population and infrastructure," Switzerland stressed in New York. Hospitals are under special protection according to international humanitarian law.
The people, and especially the children, in Ukraine must return to a safe and normal life. For this to become possible, Russia must stop its military aggression against Ukraine, cease hostilities and withdraw its troops from the entire territory of Ukraine. "The UN Charter obliges us all to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states," Switzerland emphasised in its statement. It remains committed to contributing to a just and lasting peace in Ukraine in accordance with the UN Charter and international law. In this spirit, 100 delegations from all regions of the world met on the Bürgenstock in mid-June to inspire a process for such peace.
Statement by Switzerland on the situation in Ukraine, UN Security Council, 09.07.2024
The Swiss private sector is to play a key role in Ukraine's recovery. Switzerland's Federal Council plans to make CHF 500 million available over the next four years to better involve the private sector in these efforts. The funds will come from the CHF 1.5 billion earmarked for Ukraine in the International Cooperation Strategy 2025–28. In addition, the Federal Council intends to provide CHF 66 million to support early recovery in the east of the country as well as the reconstruction and modernisation of basic infrastructure in the areas of energy security, water supply and public transport. All of this was decided by the Federal Council at its meeting on 26 June 2024.
A vast majority of the States and organisations taking part in the High-Level Conference on Peace in Ukraine supported the Joint Communiqué.
In her closing speech, President of the Confederation Viola Amherd described the Joint Communiqué as “a clear signal to the people of Ukraine and to all those directly affected by the consequences of the war. A large part of the international community has the desire to bring about change.” The discussions over the past two days have shown that there are different points of view. “All the more important is our understanding that the path towards peace in Ukraine must be pursued – on the basis of international law and, in particular, the United Nations Charter”, said the President of the Swiss Confederation.
Joint Communiqué and list of states and international organisations supporting the Joint Communiqué
Closing address by President Viola Amherd at the Summit on Peace in Ukraine
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis met with Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in Bern today. The IAEA is the only internationally responsible authority in the nuclear domain.
Switzerland actively supports compliance with existing IAEA standards and participates in efforts to promote the principles of the IAEA. In this context, the IAEA has established the seven pillars of nuclear safety and security during armed conflict and the five principles for the protection of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant, which constitute the minimum basis for the protection of nuclear power plants. The five principles were presented during Switzerland's presidency of the UN Security Council in New York in May 2023.
The IAEA also carries out missions to strengthen safety at Ukrainian nuclear power plants. It therefore appears reasonable to strive for a joint effort to support nuclear safety and security in Ukraine, both in practical and financial aspects as well as in political terms.
90 states and organisations have so far registered to attend the summit on peace in Ukraine at the Bürgenstock (NW) on 15/16 June. On 10 June, President Viola Amherd, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis and Nidwalden Cantonal Councillor Karin Kayser-Frutschi, together with Stephan Grieder, head of operations and chief of the Nidwalden Cantonal Police, and Major General Daniel Keller, Commander of Territorial Division 2, gave a briefing on the state of preparations and security measures.
At its meeting on 10 April 2024, the Federal Council took note of the results of the exploratory phase of the Summit on Peace in Ukraine. The conditions are now in place for the summit to be able to initiate a peace process. The first step is to develop a common understanding among the participating states with a view to achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine. The summit is scheduled for June 2024 at the Bürgenstock resort in the canton of Nidwalden.
The summit aims to establish a forum for a high-level dialogue on ways to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine in accordance with international law and the UN Charter. It aims to create a common understanding of a framework favourable to this objective and a concrete roadmap for the peace process.
Switzerland has been involved in humanitarian demining for over 30 years. In 2023, the FDFA and DDPS spent around CHF 35.3 million in this area. This makes Switzerland one of the world's top 10 donors in this field. With its commitment, it promotes the clearance of mines and other explosive ordnance, education about the risks, victim assistance and the strengthening of local capacities. Switzerland supported 12 countries directly by financing projects and sent 14 experts to a total of six regions. It is also working at the diplomatic, legal and practical levels to ensure that the relevant conventions are implemented universally.
Since the beginning of the war against Ukraine, Switzerland has sent regular shipments of relief goods to those impacted, with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) spearheading the effort financially and logistically. The first of three aid consignments in 2024 arrived in Kiev today.
This latest consignment, building on December 2023's dispatch of firefighting and ambulance vehicles, focuses on crucial firefighting equipment: foam, spare parts for fire engines, protective gear, medical gloves, and adult and adolescent vaccination kits. It also includes five loop detectors intended for a collaborative project of humanitarian demining with the Fondation suisse de déminage (FSD). This aid, valued at around CHF 900,000, is provided from the stock of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports (DDPS) and the city of Burgdorf in the Canton of Bern.
At the end of September 2023, the Federal Council allocated CHF 100 million for demining civilian and agricultural areas in Ukraine and facilitating the country's recovery.
Since the beginning of the war on 24 February 2022, the Swiss federal government has been supporting the people in Ukraine in their difficult situation with various measures.
From Kiev via Sumy and Lviv to Kharkiv: an interactive map shows the federal government's support for the people affected by the war in Ukraine. Click on the image above to access the map.
Measures taken by the Confederation since 24 February 2022
“The embassy ensures that the projects are implemented efficiently and correctly on the ground“
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis took part in a high-level debate at the UN Security Council centred on the second anniversary of the war in Ukraine. The head of the FDFA reminded the Council of the pursuit of peace as a declared founding goal of the United Nations in the UN Charter and emphasised that this goal is the raison d'être of the organisation. "We bear responsibility for this ideal, which was adopted here three quarters of a century ago," emphasised the head of the FDFA in New York.
Since the beginning of the war, the Security Council has been unable to fulfil its responsibility to ensure peace and security for Ukraine and its people. Thousands of people have lost their lives, millions have been displaced and the human suffering is immense. Against this backdrop, Mr Cassis asked what the international community can do to ensure that the principles of the UN Charter, the Geneva Conventions and international humanitarian law are upheld in Ukraine and elsewhere in the world. "We must not fall into pessimism," explained Federal Councillor Cassis.
The path to peace in Ukraine must be travelled together. And the first step on this path is the organisation of the first international conference in Switzerland on peace in Ukraine. "We are working tirelessly to try and set in motion a new dynamic, a pragmatic and inclusive process," emphasised the head of the FDFA in the Security Council. Federal Councillor Cassis has organised various outreach activities at different levels over the past month to ensure that such a process can be successfully launched. "Switzerland, with its tradition of good offices, is convinced that we must listen to everyone," emphasised Ignazio Cassis. The prerequisite for a successful peace process is broad representation that includes all regions of the world.
The head of the FDFA took part in the OSCE's reinforced Permanent Council virtually from New York on Friday and then made a statement to the UN General Assembly. On the eve of the second anniversary of the war in Ukraine, the Federal Councillor called on the participants to build a broad alliance across continents in order to "remain united nations and not turn into disunited powers". Ignazio Cassis confirmed Switzerland's intention to organise a high-level peace conference by the summer at Ukraine's request.
Speaking at the UN General Assembly, he said: "We have a duty to fulfil the mandate given to us by this Assembly: to secure the right of the peoples of the nations to live in peace. This means that we must restore peace and justice in Ukraine." He assured that the Charter of the United Nations remains the fundamental text that guarantees our universal values and the multilateral order. He expressed his determination not only to contribute to peace, but also to protect civilians who are defenceless against the devastating effects of war. Finally, he called for compliance with the Geneva Conventions, the first text of which was published 160 years ago.
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will also take part in a high-level debate in the UN Security Council centred on the second anniversary of the war in Ukraine.
Speech by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis at the UN General Assembly, 23.02.2024 (fr)
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis took part in a high-level event on humanitarian demining in Ukraine at the United Nations headquarters in New York. "Mine clearance in Ukraine is a prerequisite for reconstruction. Clearing contaminated land saves lives," said the head of the FDFA in his opening address. It is believed that up to a third of Ukraine's territory - around four times the area of Switzerland - could be contaminated by mines and other explosive ordnance.
The contamination of arable land in the breadbasket of Europe has a serious impact on commodity prices and food security around the world. It is destroying the basis for Ukrainian farmers' livelihoods, which in turn could permanently impair production capacities in this very fertile region. The consequences that are already being felt are rising food prices. This threatens the food security of millions of people in need - especially in countries of the Global South. "We must face up to these challenges," emphasised Federal Councillor Cassis. Innovative approaches can make a difference and speed up the demining process. One example of this is mapping areas of land with drones and using artificial intelligence to analyse data from the resulting images in order to identify mined areas.
In New York, the head of the FDFA emphasised that efforts to strengthen and accelerate humanitarian demining in Ukraine must also be driven forward at diplomatic level. Switzerland is therefore organising the international "Ukraine Mine Action Conference" in mid-October 2024. Among other things, food security in connection with mine contamination in Ukraine will also be addressed.
As a result of Russia's military aggression, Ukraine has become one of the most heavily mined countries in the world. On 29 September 2023, the Federal Council approved a supplementary budget of CHF 100 million to contribute to mine clearance in civilian areas and the country's recovery. Funding is provided in equal parts by the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport and the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). This amount is making a significant contribution to strengthening Ukraine's national mine action programme.
Mines and unexploded ordnance regularly claim civilian lives and hamper Ukraine's reconstruction efforts. Given the scale of the contamination, an initial project with a budget of CHF 9.9 million was signed on 11 January 2024 between the FDFA and the Fondation suisse de déminage (FSD).
Over the coming year, this project will see the expansion and intensification of demining operations in Kharkiv province and the opening of a new operational base in late spring in Kherson province.
Thanks to this funding, the FSD is in a position to deploy the full range of demining activities to tackle the immediate threat to life posed by mined areas. In coordination with the Ukrainian authorities, the FSD is allocated areas suspected of being contaminated and begins by carrying out an investigation, using drones in particular, to determine the extent of the contamination.
In confirmed contaminated areas, the FSD deploys deminers, supported by more sophisticated tools such as detection dogs and demining machines, to remove the explosive devices. Alongside this delicate process, other FSD teams visit local residents to make them aware of the dangers and teach them about appropriate behaviours to adopt. It is already clear that with so much of the country contaminated, people will have to learn to live with this danger for years to come.
Around 50 FSD staff are already working on the project, and several dozen Ukrainian nationals will be recruited and trained in January and February this year.
In total, up to 200 people will be deployed as part of the project, including two teams with mine detection dogs and a GCS machine to support manual demining. The equipment including machines, vehicles and detectors funded by Switzerland in an initial project with the FSD in 2023 will be reused, as will the personnel already trained. Activities on the ground are scheduled to start in March, as soon as the spring thaw begins in Ukraine.
During the official visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Bern on Monday 15 January, Switzerland and Ukraine acknowledged the depth and dynamism of their bilateral relations. The Swiss government delegation, led by President Viola Amherd, underscored Switzerland's continued solidarity with Ukraine. Another key item on the agenda was the follow-up to the meeting of national security advisers hosted in Davos on Sunday within the framework of the Ukrainian peace formula. Switzerland expressed its willingness to organise a high-level summit.
The Swiss government was also represented at the talks in Bern by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), and Federal Councillor Beat Jans, head of the Federal Department of Justice and Police (FDJP).
At the 4th meeting of national security advisors within the framework of the Ukrainian Peace Formula, representatives from over 80 countries discussed principles for lasting peace in Ukraine. "What unites us all in this room is our desire to offer Ukraine and its people the prospect of a return to a self-determined life, to a just and lasting peace. This road is long, but it is never too early to prepare for the time when the guns fall silent," said Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis at the opening of the meeting in Davos, which he chaired together with the head of the Ukrainian presidential office, Andriy Yermak. In Davos, Switzerland provided the platform to discuss the Ukrainian President's peace formula with high-ranking representatives of numerous nations from all continents of the world.
On 14 January 2024, Switzerland and Ukraine will host the fourth national security advisers' (NSA) meeting. In Davos, NSAs will discuss the principles for sustainable peace in Ukraine within the framework of the peace formula, as they did at previous meetings in Copenhagen, Jeddah and Malta.
Launched at the end of 2022 by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the peace formula sets out a number of principles to ensure sustainable peace in Ukraine, including accountability for the crime of aggression, the protection of people's lives, and the restoration of Ukraine's security and territorial integrity. Switzerland welcomes the initiative as a matter of principle, as it does any project that can provide a basis for negotiations on sustainable peace.
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will open the NSA meeting in Davos. Ambassador Gabriel Lüchinger, head of the FDFA's International Security Division, will head the Swiss delegation for the substantive talks at security adviser level.
In organising the meeting in Davos, Switzerland is continuing its efforts to help shape a future for Ukraine. With the World Economic Forum taking place straight after the meeting, synergies are in place to enable the broadest possible participation from many countries.
In organising this meeting, Switzerland is helping to support discussions for a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine. Following the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Lugano in 2022, at which the political recovery process was launched on a broad basis, Switzerland is now organising another major conference in Davos. Under the leadership of Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, the first stage of the Ukrainian peace formula should be able to be finalised.
Switzerland regularly hosts negotiations or mediates in talks and meetings. With that in mind, Ukraine asked Switzerland to host the next NSA meeting. Switzerland is thus continuing its efforts to help shape a future for Ukraine. With the World Economic Forum taking place straight after the meeting, promising synergies are in place to enable the broadest possible participation from many countries.
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will represent Switzerland at the meeting and will open the conference. The substantive discussions will take place at the national security adviser level and the Swiss delegation will be led by Ambassador Gabriel Lüchinger, head of the FDFA's International Security Division.
Around 120 countries will be invited to the meeting at national security adviser level. The definitive list of participants will not be finalised until very shortly before the meeting.
Switzerland's efforts with regard to the peace formula are in line with the other measures it has taken so far to support the people affected by the war in Ukraine and to help shape the country's future. This includes the broad-based political recovery process that was launched together with Ukraine in Lugano in July 2022. Switzerland is also committed to the prosecution of international crimes such as the crime of aggression and war crimes, and to the search for and identification of missing persons.
As part of international cooperation, the Swiss government provides humanitarian aid and has adapted existing development cooperation projects to the new context. Since the outbreak of the war, it has supported the Ukrainian population with over CHF 350 million.
On 29 September 2023, the Federal Council also approved CHF 100 million for mine action in Ukraine. The funding is split equally between the FDFA and the DDPS.
Switzerland underscored its continuing support for the peace process in Ukraine at the national security advisers' meeting in Malta. The conference, which was attended by Swiss ambassador Gabriel Lüchinger, included 90 states from all continents and the EU, and focused on the principles and implementation of the peace plan set out by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
On 29 September 2023, the Federal Council approved a CHF 100 million package to demine civilian and agricultural areas in Ukraine and aid the country's recovery. The funding will be provided in equal shares by the Department of Defence, Civil Protection, and Sport (DDPS) and the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).
In keeping with its humanitarian tradition, Switzerland has cutting-edge expertise in mine action. Geneva is home to the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD), which over the past decade has provided Ukraine with training, strategic support and technical advice to strengthen the capacity of government institutions. Only a small number of mine clearance organisations are currently active in Ukraine. Among them is the Fondation suisse de déminage (FSD), which is stepping up the engagement it began in the Donbas region, where war has been raging since 2014. Switzerland is also home to a number of manufacturers of demining machines.
With winter approaching, Swiss Humanitarian Aid has delivered around 20 tonnes of material to Ukraine. Two trucks transported the material, including sleeping bags, work shoes, cooking utensils and cooking boxes. It was provided by the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS). The delivery reached the Ukrainian city of Odessa on 18 September 2023.
Ignazio Cassis and the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi exchanged views for the third time within a year. This underlines the importance Switzerland attaches to nuclear safety, especially in the context of the war in Ukraine. In his discussions with Mr Grossi, the head of the FDFA emphasised that Switzerland remains concerned about the situation of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant. Against this backdrop, Mr Cassis announced that Switzerland will support the IAEA with CHF 1 million for its missions in Ukraine. This financial contribution is in addition to Switzerland's material support with iodine tablets and protective suits.
The financial and material support is part of Switzerland's strong commitment to nuclear security and safety in Ukraine. Switzerland also actively supports compliance with existing IAEA standards. For example, during its presidency of the UN Security Council in May 2023, Switzerland facilitated the presentation of the five principles of the IAEA for the protection of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant. The principles are as follows: no attacks of any kind from or against the nuclear power plant; no storage or stationing of heavy weapons or troops at the plant; no threat to the external power supply; protection of all systems necessary for safe operation against attacks or acts of sabotage; no actions that undermine these principles. The head of the FDFA reiterated at the time that the protection of the nuclear power plant is a matter of respect for international humanitarian law.
In addition to its cooperation with the IAEA, Switzerland is also active in the Radiation and Nuclear Safety working group. This is part of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's peace plan. Within the working group, Switzerland is committed to ensuring that the group's work is in line with the five principles and existing IAEA processes.
In addition to its cooperation with the IAEA, Switzerland is also active in the Radiation and Nuclear Safety working group. This is part of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's peace plan. Within the working group, Switzerland is committed to ensuring that the group's work is in line with the five principles and existing IAEA processes.
President Berset took part in a debate on Ukraine in the Security Council. The debate took place under the Albanian chairmanship during the opening week of the UN General Assembly and in the presence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Swiss President underlined the central importance of the UN Charter for peace and security in the world. However, the number of conflicts is increasing and with it the suffering of the civilian population. Alain Berset condemned Russia's military aggression against Ukraine. It is a striking example of a breach of the UN Charter principles. The President of the Swiss Confederation called on Russia to cease all hostilities and immediately withdraw its troops from Ukrainian territory.
The consequences of Russia's military aggression against Ukraine are being felt around the world. Food security is in jeopardy, the energy sector is affected and nuclear risks are increasing. That is why strong multilateralism and mutual trust are more important than ever to achieve peace in Ukraine.
The task of rebuilding Ukraine in accordance with the Lugano Principles is immense. Switzerland shows solidarity with the Ukrainian people in many ways. Among other things, it supports humanitarian demining with expertise and material supplies, and plans to further expand this commitment. The President also called for a return to the Black Sea Grain Initiative.
Statement by President Alain Berset at the UN Security Council, 20.09.2023
In May 2023, the Council of Europe established the Register of Damage, a database containing evidence and information on damage caused to Ukraine by the Russian Federation. At its meeting on 30 August 2023, the Federal Council decided that Switzerland will join this Register of Damage. This membership underscores Switzerland's support for those affected by the war and for the political process of rebuilding Ukraine, which Switzerland initiated in conjunction with the Ukrainian government at the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2022 in Lugano.
At a high-level meeting chaired by the UK foreign secretary and attended by Ukraine's minister of foreign affairs, Switzerland reiterated its support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, in accordance with international law. It also stressed the obligation of all parties to respect international humanitarian law.
At this meeting, Switzerland emphasised the importance of beginning work on recovery-related matters immediately. The recovery process was launched at the first Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC) in Lugano in July 2022, organised jointly by Switzerland and Ukraine. The URC resulted in the adoption of the Lugano Principles, which all participating countries endorsed. Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, who hosted last year's URC, stated unequivocally that the Ukrainian people could continue to count on Switzerland's support at the URC 2023 in London on 22 June for their country's recovery.
The extension of the Black Sea Initiative was another key topic of discussion, with Switzerland launching an urgent appeal for global food security. Switzerland deplores Russia's decision on the Black Sea Grain Initiative and hopes that they will be renewed in the near future. Since it was adopted in July 2022, this initiative has enabled more than 32 million tonnes of food to be exported to 45 countries on three continents. Through its good offices, Switzerland welcomes and supports the tireless efforts of the UN secretary-general and Turkey to find an agreement between the parties and advance this important initiative.
Pascale Baeriswyl, Switzerland's ambassador to the UN in New York also called for the principles of the UN Charter to be upheld as the basis for a just, comprehensive and sustainable peace in Ukraine. "Switzerland is closely following the different peace initiatives for Ukraine, and emphasises that the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected," she added, referring to various initiatives adopted by the international community.
Switzerland has again expressed its support for the International Criminal Court and for measures and mechanisms aimed at delivering justice for victims and at rebuilding Ukraine, including the register of damage set up by the Council of Europe. Ambassador Baeriswyl also underscored the pressing need for justice at the General Assembly's annual debate on the situation in the temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories on 18 July.
Pascale Baeriswyl also expressed Switzerland's concern about the use of anti-personnel mines and cluster munitions in Ukraine. "As a State party to the Ottawa and Oslo Conventions, Switzerland calls on all States and parties to the conflict not to use these weapons", she told the Council. Switzerland is providing its expertise to support humanitarian demining in Ukraine and has just launched new mine action measures thanks to a supplementary credit approved by Parliament in the 2023 summer session. In 2023, Switzerland will provide at least CHF 15 million to Ukraine for humanitarian mine action.
Switzerland is providing its expertise to support humanitarian demining in Ukraine and has just launched new mine action measures thanks to a supplementary credit approved by Parliament in the 2023 summer session.
The Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD) will also be strengthening its presence in Kyiv. "Thanks to Switzerland's contribution, we can expand our activities in Ukraine and help ensure that demining efforts are planned, prioritised, and executed efficiently, effectively, and safely," explained GICHD director Stefano Toscano. The FDFA and Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) will allocate CHF 3.2 million to fund the GICHD's activities from 2023 to 2025.
The FDFA and Liechtenstein are also providing CHF 2.5 million until March 2024 for the Fondation Suisse de déminage (FSD) work in Ukraine, particularly in the Kharkiv region.
These two projects form part of Switzerland's broader support for Ukraine. In 2023, Switzerland will provide at least CHF 15 million to Ukraine for humanitarian mine action.
The situation in Ukraine will also be discussed at the UN Security Council on 17 July 2023.
Press release « Swiss expertise bolsters humanitarian demining efforts in Ukraine», 17.07.2023
Tradition and principles of humanitarian mine action in Switzerland
At the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2023 in London, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis called for continued support for Ukraine’s recovery based on the Lugano Principles. He also outlined the areas where Switzerland intends to focus its support. These include assistance for Ukraine's humanitarian demining.
Switzerland has been providing political and financial support for humanitarian demining activities for more than two decades. In Ukraine, humanitarian demining is crucial for reconstruction.
As a contribution to reducing the consequences after the destruction of the dam, Switzerland has supplied pipes and pumps to the water system operators upstream of the dam. This allows water supply systems to operate even at lower water levels. Switzerland has also purchased 31 water tanks in Ukraine and delivered them, together with water bottling racks from Switzerland, to various communities affected by water shortages upstream of the dam. With these tanks, a total of over 60,000 people can be supplied with drinking water. In addition, an urgently needed all-terrain vehicle (for transporting people and materials on any surface, including through water) was financed for the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU). This vehicle, together with numerous other vehicles and material that Switzerland has already delivered to SESU in recent months, will be used in the affected regions.
Switzerland is currently working with municipalities, local water system operators, the government and NGOs to find out what material is needed where and how it can best be purchased. This week, two Swiss Humanitarian Aid experts specialised in water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) travelled to the affected areas to assess needs and support possibilities.
Many partner organisations co-financed by the SDC have adapted their activities to provide emergency aid to people affected by the floods. For example, the Swiss partner organisation Partnership Fund for a Resilient Ukraine (PFRU) is supporting the local government of the city of Kherson and SESU in providing humanitarian assistance; including boats, equipment for water rescue and evacuation of the injured, vouchers for fuel for local volunteers in rescue missions and generators for local communities. Other NGOs co-funded by the SDC are also providing emergency assistance (hygiene kits, shelter materials, food and other relief supplies) to those affected by the floods.
Access and aid delivery in the region are hampered by shifted and washed-up mines.
Another member of the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit is seconded to the UN, playing a key role in coordinating WASH activities with Ukrainian water system operators.
The UN Security Council met on 6 June for an emergency session to discuss the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam in Ukraine. Switzerland expressed its deep concern about these new developments, which place an additional burden on the civilian population marked by Russia's ongoing military aggression. They further increase the burden on the civilian population suffering from Russia's military aggression against Ukraine. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also spoke out yesterday via a media release, stating that the extent of the damage was still difficult to determine, but it was already clear that we are facing a humanitarian, economic and environmental catastrophe".
Thousands of people are affected by this disaster. In addition to the devastating short-term consequences in southern Ukraine, serious long-term consequences must also be expected. "Switzerland is concerned about the risks that massive flooding could pose to the environment, as well as to energy and food security, including water supplies," Adrian Dominik Hauri told the Security Council in New York.
This event is a sad example of the connection between water and the protection of civilians, which the UN Security Council, at the request of Switzerland and Mozambique, has already addressed in detail in March 2023. In particular, the fresh water supply in southern Ukraine, including the Crimean peninsula, depends to a large extent on the Nova Kakhovka dam. There are also large agricultural areas in these regions. In this crisis situation, the protection of the civilian population must be paramount, as required by international humanitarian law. The protection of the environment in armed conflicts is also of central importance. Switzerland is ready to fully support the immediate response of the UN and humanitarian partners who, in coordination with the Ukrainian government, are doing everything in their power to provide vital assistance, including ensuring the supply of drinking water. All parties to the conflict are obliged to ensure humanitarian access to all persons in need of assistance.
The Nova Kakhovka dam is also central to the cooling system of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant, on which the Security Council recently discussed during Switzerland's presidency under the leadership of Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis. The "seven pillars" defined by Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), state, among other things, that the integrity of the plant and logistical supplies must be guaranteed at all times.
In view of the urgency and seriousness of the situation, Switzerland underlined in the Council that attacks on civilian infrastructure are unacceptable. International humanitarian law prohibits attacks on civilian objects and provides special protection for dams. Switzerland calls on all parties to respect international humanitarian law. Once again, Switzerland condemned Russia's military aggression against Ukraine and called on Russia to immediately de-escalate the situation, cease all hostilities and withdraw its troops from Ukrainian territory without delay.
Chaired by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, the UN Security Council discussed on 30 May 2023 the protection of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant in the presence of Ukraine. "We are all aware of the risks to the civilian population when a nuclear power plant is located in a war zone. It is our duty to protect the civilian population," Federal Councillor Cassis said in New York.
At the briefing, IAEA Director General Grossi presented five principles to the Council for the protection of the nuclear power plant in south-eastern Ukraine:
During the meeting, Switzerland reiterated its condemnation of Russia's military aggression against Ukraine and any attacks against civilian infrastructure. Switzerland again called on Russia to withdraw its troops from Ukrainian territory. It welcomed the IAEA's commitment to protecting civilian nuclear facilities in Ukraine and called on all Council members to support the five principles proposed by the IAEA for protecting the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant. Federal Councillor Cassis called on Russia and Ukraine in particular to fully implement these five principles.
In consultation with the IAEA and the other Council members, Swiss diplomacy has been working in recent weeks to ensure that the meeting takes place. Switzerland recalled that the protection of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant is a matter of respect for international humanitarian law. Respecting and promoting this law is a priority for Switzerland and a pillar of its Good Offices.
Today's meeting is thematically linked to the Federal Council's priorities for Switzerland's seat on the Security Council. During the presidential month of May, several meetings were chaired by members of the Federal Council. On 3 and 4 May, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis chaired an open debate focusing on mutual trust and a meeting on the cooperation between the UN and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). On 23 May, President Alain Berset emphasised in the Council that the protection of civilians in armed conflict must not only exist on paper, but also be increasingly implemented in practice. For her part, Federal Councillor Viola Amherd chaired a session on the financing of peace missions in Africa on 25 May. Today's session will focus on the protection of civilians from nuclear disasters. With these and other geographical and thematic meetings, the Federal Council is on track in implementing its priorities. Overall, Switzerland draws a positive conclusion from this first Council Presidency.
Five second-hand ambulances were handed over to local NGOs in Kyiv, donated to Ukraine by the Canton of Basel-Stadt and the City of Zurich, with a further delivery planned for summer 2023. Switzerland is thus continuing its long-term support for Ukraine. The FDFA’s Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), financed and organized the shipments. After being handed over by the Swiss Embassy in Kyiv to the local NGOs SMARTA and Caritas Ukraine, the ambulances will be used in hospitals in Kharkiv oblast and the city of Kramatorsk.
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, head of the FDFA, took part in a high-level UN Security Council debate in New York on 24 February 2023. Mr Cassis called for the withdrawal of Russia's armed forces present on Ukraine's sovereign territory for a year and for respect of the Geneva Conventions. He also underscored Switzerland's commitment to a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
"After a year of war, we must combine our strengths, ideas and resources to restore a sense of security in Europe and ensure a return to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine," said Mr Cassis before the Security Council.
As a permanently neutral country, Switzerland fully respects its obligations under the law of neutrality. It does not favour any of the belligerents militarily. Still, as Mr Cassis recalled, "neutrality does not mean indifference to violations of international law". He stressed that "Switzerland stands ready to bring all parties to the table in order to bolster respect for international humanitarian law and ultimately achieve peace."
Mr Cassis is at the United Nations headquarters in New York this weekend, one year after the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. He is taking part in an emergency special session of the General Assembly, as well as in a Security Council debate. This serves as an occasion for him to reiterate Switzerland's strong condemnation of the Russian aggression against Ukraine, still under way, and to call for an immediate end to the conflict and the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine's sovereign territory.
The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution by a large majority (141 votes), with Mr Cassis in attendance. The resolution calls on states and international organisations to strengthen their support for diplomatic efforts to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine in keeping with the UN Charter, and on Russia to withdraw its troops from Ukrainian territory.
"With today's resolution, we are sending out a strong message of peace and respect for the principles that unite us," said Mr Cassis before the General Assembly. The new text calls on UN member states and international organisations to strengthen their support for peace. For Mr Cassis, who stressed his appeal to the entire international community "to work hand in hand towards a peaceful settlement of this conflict," it is a clear signal from the international community to Russia.
On 24 February 2022, Russia launched a military attack on Ukraine. One year after the military aggression began, the Federal Council expresses its solidarity with the war-stricken population, takes stock of its engagement and requests, at its meeting of 22 February 2023, the immediate release of a new aid package totalling CHF 140 million.
The aid envisaged in this emergency package builds on Switzerland's engagement in Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova. It is a targeted response to needs and requests from both countries in areas where Switzerland has specific expertise. The lines of action include shelter for schools, repairs to hospitals and energy infrastructure, small loans to agricultural SMEs, demining, psychosocial support for the population, and more.
War against Ukraine – measures taken by the Confederation since 24 February 2022
Switzerland continues its aid deliveries for the Ukrainian population and delivers around 390 pallets of winter equipment. The Swiss army is providing the Ukrainian population with protective clothing against the cold from its stock. This includes around 170,000 pairs of gloves, 40,000 pairs of socks and 2,000 blankets.
The military material left the army logistics centre in Othmarsingen on 25 January 2023 and will be transported by truck to Kyiv (Kiev) in three days. The delivery is being made under the lead of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).
Last December, heating equipment and generators had already been delivered to Ukraine for the upcoming winter. The transport is being organised by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). The equipment will be handed over to the Ukrainian Civil Defence, which will distribute it to the population.
The Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC) held in Lugano last July will be resumed in London in 2023. At the World Economic Forum in Davos, in the presence of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry's State Secretary, Oleksandr Bankov, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis has officially handed over responsibility for preparing the next URC to UK Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Grant Shapps. The head of the FDFA recalled the Lugano Principles and described them as a compass pointing the way to Ukraine's recovery even in dark times.
"The decisions taken in Lugano will be followed up in London," said Mr Cassis, as he officially handed over responsibility for preparing the next URC to UK Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Grant Shapps. The main focus in Lugano was on post-war reconstruction, giving hope to people in Ukraine, said Federal Councillor Cassis. "I believe we need a compass to guide us, even in the dark times we are currently experiencing," he added. "The Lugano Declaration serves as that compass."
The World Economic Forum (WEF) will take place from 17 to 19 January 2023. For Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, the situation in Ukraine and the continuation of Switzerland's commitment to the reconstruction of Ukraine will be a focus of his talks in Davos. On 18 January 2023, the head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) will hold the Ukraine Recovery Conference handover event "From Lugano to London" together with representatives of the United Kingdom and Ukraine. The United Kingdom will take the lead in preparing the next Ukraine Recovery Conference. Federal Councillor Cassis will also take part in events dealing with the war in Ukraine and its global consequences.
On the first day of his stay in Davos, Federal Councillor Cassis met Olena Zelenska. Federal Councillor Cassis spoke with the wife of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy about the current situation in Ukraine and Switzerland's commitment to the reconstruction.
War in Ukraine. Measures taken by Switzerland since 24.2.2022 (PDF, 1 Page, 27.6 kB, English)
Swiss financial support since 24.2.2022 (PDF, 1 Page, 29.5 kB, English)
Shortly before Christmas, several trucks set off from Bern on their way to Ukraine. They are transporting 40 mobile heaters and 40 generators to the people suffering from the war and the cold. After their arrival, the devices will be handed over to the Ukrainian Civil Protection Unit.
The heaters and generators can be used in tents or large rooms where the inhabitants can warm up. The material was assembled in Switzerland by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) that is also organising the transport. The dispatch of additional relief material is currently being examined.
With this delivery, Switzerland is responding to the precarious situation of the people in Ukraine, which has been exacerbated by the Russian army's attacks on civilian infrastructure. Many people are without electricity and heating due to the targeted attacks on the country's energy infrastructure. Access to drinking water or telecommunications has also been interrupted in many places.
Switzerland has therefore been supporting Ukraine with relief supplies for weeks. Among other things, fire-fighting equipment has been delivered to the Ukrainian Civil Protection Unit and staff trained in the use of fire-fighting vehicles (see video). A week ago, several trucks also transported generators to Ukraine.
A week ago, several trucks also transported power generators to Ukraine.
At the Paris Conference on 13 December 2022, President Ignazio Cassis presented the Winter Aid Action Plan for Ukraine. The Federal Council had allocated CHF 100 million for this in November. Parliament approved the action plan in December.
War in Ukraine. Measures taken by Switzerland since 24.2.2022 (PDF, 1 Page, 27.6 kB, English)
Swiss financial support since 24.2.2022 (PDF, 1 Page, 29.5 kB, English)
Russian attacks have destroyed around half of Ukraine's energy infrastructure, leaving people without access to drinking water and disrupting power and telecommunications in many areas. The winter conditions are making the already dire situation of the Ukrainian people even worse. France and Ukraine convened the conference on civilian resilience in Ukraine to explore ways to get short-term aid to people affected by the war.
President of the Swiss Confederation Ignazio Cassis attended the conference in Paris focusing on specific humanitarian relief efforts to help the Ukrainian people get through winter. The discussion, which was led by France and Ukraine, focused on specific action on power, water, food security, healthcare and transport over the next four months. The discussion extended beyond the broad-based recovery of Ukraine, which started at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Lugano in July and was resumed at the Berlin Conference.
In Paris, President Cassis stressed that people in Ukraine urgently needed help. During a visit to Kyiv in October 2022, he had seen first-hand the destruction caused by Russia's attacks. He referred to the Federal Council's decision regarding the winter aid action package for Ukraine, which had been approved by Parliament. The CHF 100 million package will enable emergency repairs to be made to energy infrastructure and help many Ukrainians prepare for the winter. In addition, trucks from Switzerland carrying 30 generators are currently on their way to Ukraine.
At the conference, Mr Cassis stressed that countries need to coordinate their assistance for Ukraine properly to ensure that it is effective. The current relief efforts are also based on the Lugano Principles and Mr Cassis welcomed the platform recently adopted by the G7 for the coordination of donor support. He also highlighted the importance of good coordination in building trust, noting that "trust can be won on the ground by undertaking joint projects and implementing genuine and ambitious reforms."
Address by the President of the Swiss Confederation Ignazio Cassis
President Ignazio Cassis attended the International Expert Conference on the Reconstruction of Ukraine, which was held in Berlin at the invitation of the German G7 Presidency and the European Commission. The conference addressed how to ensure the success of Ukraine’s sustainable and inclusive reconstruction. The framework for the political process of reconstruction is the Lugano Declaration, an outcome of the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC2022).
One year after his last visit, Mr Cassis has travelled to Ukraine again in order to gain a first-hand impression of the situation and humanitarian needs on the ground, and to discuss with the Ukrainian co-organisers of URC2022 how recovery in the war-torn country can be implemented and advanced. During the meeting with President Zelenskyy, the main topics discussed were the situation in the country, namely Russian airstrikes on residential areas in Ukraine, the current situation on the front lines and the challenges of the approaching winter. The two presidents also discussed Swiss support for Ukraine at the bilateral and multilateral level.
During his visit to Kyiv, Mr Cassis also met Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, with whom he had hosted URC2022 in Lugano three months ago. The focus of the conversation was on the follow-up to the conference and how the basic parameters of recovery agreed at URC2022 can be effectively implemented for Ukraine. "I would have preferred to return here in different circumstances. But right now it is more important than ever to be here. Together with the Ukrainian government, we are assessing in concrete terms what the most pressing humanitarian needs are. We are also keen to support innovative Ukrainian efforts for the nation's recovery.
During his trip, Mr Cassis visited suburbs of Kyiv where the consequences of the war are visible, but where effective reconstruction is also taking place. While in Kyiv, he also met representatives of civil society to exchange on concrete efforts for recovery. The Lugano Principles negotiated at URC2022 provide for the active participation of the population in the recovery process in order to ensure a sustainable and fair outcome.
Switzerland is continuing to provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine. The FDFA has organised several convoys carrying 100 tonnes of supplies, including medical and sanitation equipment. These operations are part of the support efforts undertaken by the federal government since the start of the war. In cooperation with the DDPS, the FDFA has delivered over 5,300 tonnes of emergency aid to Ukraine and neighbouring countries since March.
All video streams from URC2022 in English and Ukrainian are available on YouTube:
URC2022 - The second day in a video:
Switzerland and Ukraine compiled, with the support of their international partners, the Lugano Declaration. The document provides a framework for the political process of Ukraine's reconstruction and sets out the Lugano Principles as common benchmarks for the future.
"What we have achieved yesterday and today is condensed into the Lugano Declaration. With the support of international partners, Switzerland and Ukraine have drawn up a document that forms a framework for the political process of reconstruction," explained President Cassis.
The second day of URC2022 opened with the national and institutional statements.
Speech - National Statement by Switzerland: Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC2022)
An economic forum was organised by the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) together with Ukraine. It was opened by President Cassis, Prime Minister Shmyhal and the State Secretary for Economic Affairs, Marie-Gabrielle Ineichen-Fleisch.
Speech of Ignazio Cassis, president of the Swiss Confederation
The President of the Swiss Confederation Ignazio Cassis together with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, via video link from Kyiv, and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal in person in Lugano, opened the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC2022) to launch the reconstruction process at the international level. “A prerequisite for success is that the original conference idea (institutional reforms) and the current conference idea (targeted reconstruction) form a whole", explained President Cassis in his speech.
Speech of Ignazio Cassis, President of the Swiss Confederation
The first day of URC2022 focused on Ukraine's reconstruction and development plan and the contributions of international partners, with particular attention given to the principles of reconstruction. The programme included also separate working sessions on requirements in the areas of the economy, social affairs, digitalisation, infrastructure and environmental protection.
UK Foreign Secretary Elizabeth Truss announced that the next conference in this framework will be organised by the UK together with Ukraine. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen presented the initiative for a reconstruction platform and declared the Lugano Principles to be the cornerstone for the next stages of the process.
There are only a few days left until the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC2022), which will bring together in Lugano on 4 and 5 July 2022 representatives of states and international organisations willing to work for the reconstruction of Ukraine. The goals and topics are summarised in an infographic.
Four people from Italian-speaking Switzerland voice their thoughts on the importance of this conference and their own contribution to peace. Solidarity, dialogue and exchange are the key words here.
URC2022: Four voices coming from Italian-speaking Switzerland
At their traditional meeting, President Ignazio Cassis and the government of Ticino held discussions on preparations for the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC2022). President Cassis briefed the media today in Bellinzona together with Ticino Cantonal Councillor Norman Gobbi, Police Commander Matteo Cocchi and representatives from the armed forces and fedpol.
The conference will address the current proposals for Ukraine's reconstruction and the contribution that can be made by international partners. The agenda includes in particular the priorities, methods and principles of reconstruction. At the end of the two-day event, a declaration outlining the most important outcomes of the conference is to be presented.
Following Russia’s attack on Ukraine on 24 February, Switzerland and Ukraine decided to realign the scheduled 5th Ukraine Reform Conference and dedicate it instead to the country’s recovery; the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC2022) will take place in Lugano on 4-5 July. Invitations were sent out last week to around 40 states and 18 international organisations. President Ignazio Cassis, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba gave a briefing about the aims of the conference on the fringes of the WEF Annual Meeting in Davos on Tuesday, 24 May.
In connection with the war in Ukraine, Switzerland has shown itself to be cooperative as a neutral country. President Cassis underscored this in his opening remarks at the World Economic Forum. As a neutral country, Switzerland is committed to
Russia's military aggression against Ukraine is a serious violation of basic norms of international law, and Switzerland has thus adopted the EU's sanctions against Russia.
Even if the end of the war is not yet in sight, our focus should be on the path to reconstruction and settling the economic consequences of the war, said the head of the FDFA. The Ukraine Recovery Conference will take place in Lugano at the beginning of July. "This conference should be the starting signal for the reconstruction of Ukraine," said Cassis.
In his speech, he also emphasised the need for focused multilateralism. A targeted strengthening of multilateralism and a return to core tasks is the right way to tackle issues that have a global impact and cannot be solved in isolation. These include issues such as the climate emergency and extreme poverty, as well as global economic crises, energy supply and mass migration.
Opening remarks: «Reality is multilateral»
Address by Ignazio Cassis, President of the Swiss Confederation - WEF – Open
Two and a half months after the temporary closure, Switzerland is reopening its embassy in Ukraine: five FDFA staff will return to Kyiv over the next few days. This decision is based on an in-depth analysis of the security situation in the Ukrainian capital.
Manuel Bessler, head of the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit, travelled to Ukraine from 12 to 15 May. Accompanied by a Swiss delegation and some representatives of the Swiss Embassy in Kyiv, he visited the newly opened Humanitarian Aid Office in Lviv. He also inspected projects supported by Switzerland in the region. A meeting was also held with the local authorities.
"A substantial phone call on key bilateral and regional issues." This is how President Ignazio Cassis described his telephone conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken on Twitter on 3 May. Among the topics discussed were the situation in Ukraine and Afghanistan. Finally, the conversation was an opportunity to reiterate both sides' commitment to peace and security.
In view of Russia’s ongoing military aggression in Ukraine, the Federal Council enacted further sanctions against Russia and Belarus on 27 April. The new measures include far-reaching sanctions on goods, including a ban on imports of lignite and coal as well as on goods that are important sources of revenue for Russia (e.g. timber, cement, seafood, caviar). In addition, there are export bans on goods that can help strengthen Russia's industrial capacities (e.g. industrial robots or certain chemical products). Further sanctions also come into force in the financial sector.
In order for Switzerland to be able to fulfil its international obligations to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), the Ordinance now provides for an exemption for the export of special military goods. This is to enable Switzerland to export NBC protective equipment under a request for assistance from the OPCW.
Switzerland has launched a series of aid shipments for the needy population in Ukraine. In cooperation with her Ukrainian partner Astarta-Kyiv, yesterday Switzerland handed over a first consignment of oil, sugar, flour, corn and powdered milk purchased on the Ukrainian market. This action was taken at the request of the authorities of the city of Odesa, who are working on establishing strategic reserves to ensure food distribution to vulnerable population in case of a potential blockade of the city.
The delivery of the food was welcomed by the Mayor of Odesa in the presence of a team from the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit (SHA). Since last week, an SHA team from Moldova had travelled to Ukraine several times to prepare a series of deliveries amounting to 1400 tons of food products for Odesa in cooperation with the Ukrainian authorities.
At the invitation of Liechtenstein's Minister of Foreign Affairs, the annual meeting of foreign ministers from the five German-speaking countries took place today in the Principality of Liechtenstein. Their discussions focused on the current situation in Ukraine and its geopolitical consequences, and the humanitarian crisis created by the Russian attack on Ukraine. The five German-speaking foreign ministers jointly appeal to Russia to immediately end all use of force in Ukraine and to withdraw its troops unconditionally. "As part of the European community of values, we work side by side with our neighbours and the EU for stability, security and prosperity. It is in the interest of the entire continent that the conflict be resolved as soon as possible," said the head of the FDFA during the meeting. With the joint appeal, the five German-speaking countries underline their like-minded stance on the war in Ukraine.
The day after his visit to Poland, President Cassis held political talks in Moldova and got a picture of the situation of refugees from Ukraine. In the capital Chisinau, he held bilateral talks with President Maia Sandu and Prime Minister Natalia Gavrilița. He expressed appreciation for Moldova's generous reception of refugees from Ukraine. During the meetings, the need for a coordinated European approach to refugee movements from Ukraine was also raised.
Switzerland is also helping on the ground, a Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit (SHA) Rapid Response Team having been deployed to Moldova on 7 March. Fourteen SHA members are currently serving in the country. In a transit centre for refugees, which President Cassis and Prime Minister Gavrilița visited together on Tuesday, a Swiss health team including a paediatrician, a midwife and a nurse is helping to provide basic care for mothers and their children from Ukraine.
On Monday, 21 March, President Ignazio Cassis met with Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki in Warsaw, where they discussed the crisis triggered by the Russian attack on Ukraine – in particular, the humanitarian emergency in Ukraine, refugee movements, the situation in Poland and Switzerland's humanitarian aid.
President Cassis then travelled to the Ukrainian-Polish border in Dorohusk, where he visited a refugee reception centre and Switzerland's transfer point for humanitarian aid to the people of Ukraine.
The generosity in support of the people of Ukraine is evident in towns and cantons throughout Switzerland. However, in order for this surge of solidarity to best meet the needs of the Ukrainian population, the SDC would like to draw attention to various aspects. A number of steps must be taken to ensure that the different types of aid provided to Ukraine respond to genuine needs. Please follow these brief steps:
Solidarity drive for Ukraine: aid that meets needs (PDF, 1 Page, 39.2 kB, English)
Around 12 million people are dependent on emergency aid because of Russia's ongoing military intervention in Ukraine. At its meeting of 11 March, the Federal Council decided to increase humanitarian aid to Ukraine and the wider region to CHF 80 million.
Against the background of the Russian attack on Ukraine, the Federal Council has examined how Switzerland should deal with overflight requests in the context of the armed conflict. At its meeting on 11 March 2022, it decided that the following overflights would not be authorized:
Exempted from this non-authorisation are overflights by both military aircraft of the parties to the conflict and other states that serve a humanitarian or medical purpose, including the transport of wounded persons.
Press release (fr)
Federal President Ignazio Cassis opened the fundraising day today by answering the first calls for support for the people of Ukraine.
In the evening, he took part in the donation campaign on the Bundesplatz in Bern and expressed his enthusiasm for the sympathy shown by the Swiss population.
Church bells rang out in unison in Switzerland at 10:00 today. The Switzerland’s Bishops' Conference, Protestant Reformed Church and Christian Catholic Church invited the population to a moment of recollection. The action was also supported by the President of the Swiss Confederation Ignazio Cassis, the President of the National Council Irène Kälin, and the President of the Council of States, Thomas Hefti.
The President of the Swiss Confederation Ignazio Cassis participated at this pause for peace from Neuhausen, Canton Schaffhausen.
On occasion of the National Solidarity Day in favour of the people of Ukraine, President Cassis has addressed the Swiss people. In a time of war, "it is important that we stand together and show our solidarity with the Ukrainian people who have been hit so hard", he said. On Swiss Solidarity's national donation day, the people of Switzerland could send a corresponding signal.
President Cassis underlined, that Switzerland is on the side of the law and against injustice, on the side of humanity and against barbarism, and on the side of a democracy that was being attacked without cause. "We do this as a neutral country, but not as an idle country. We do not intervene militarily, but we protect international law, we protect victims and we protect values, our own values," he said. "Acting in this way is compatible with our neutrality! To act in this way is to show solidarity."
The President of the Confederation was impressed by how many people in Switzerland are willing to take in refugees and how many have already made spontaneous donations. He also called for Russians not to be condemned solely because of their nationality. "Many of them do not want this war," he said.
Statement by Ignazio Cassis, President of the Confederation (fr)
A fourth consignment of relief supplies to meet people's daily needs is departing from Switzerland today (Monday) by rail for Poland and the Ukrainian border. Swiss Humanitarian Aid has set up a hub for relief supplies in the Polish city of Lublin in order to coordinate its support for the Ukrainian population. The Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit has dispatched an additional rapid response team to Moldova. During this first phase of the relief operation, Swiss Humanitarian Aid's support package is initially set at 8 million Swiss francs.
Today's rail consignment is the fourth delivery of relief supplies to the Ukrainian population in the space of one week. Swiss Humanitarian Aid, which is part of the FDFA, will decide on and organise further deliveries of humanitarian aid in the coming days based on requests for assistance and capacity.
Switzerland is providing the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Ukraine with half a million Swiss francs and the UN with a quarter of a million. It is contributing a further 6.5 million to the UN and other international organisations.
As a sign of solidarity with the people affected by the war in Ukraine, all church bells in Switzerland will ring for three minutes at 10am on 9 March. Switzerland's Bishops' Conference, Protestant Reformed Church and Christian Catholic Church are asking the country's population to pause for peace during the three minutes. President of the Swiss Confederation Ignazio Cassis, together with National Council President Irène Kälin and Council of States President Thomas Hefti, is supporting this campaign.
On the private radio donation day in aid of refugees from Ukraine, President Cassis underlined that Switzerland is willing to provide humanitarian aid without red tape.
In an interview with Radio Energy, President Cassis says he is touched by the many examples that show the great willingness to help in Switzerland.
Switzerland is delivering around 25 tonnes of relief supplies to the Ukrainian population. Swiss Humanitarian Aid will transport urgently needed materials and medical supplies from the Armed Forces Pharmacy to Poland. The aid supplies are part of Switzerland's overall support package worth around CHF 8 million.
President Ignazio Cassis spoke on the phone with Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Jolie and Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares Bueno. The talks focused on the situation in Ukraine.
Due to the threatening security situation in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv, the Swiss Embassy has been temporarily closed as of 28 February 2022. The remaining Swiss staff (5 persons, including the Swiss ambassador) have left Kyiv. The FDFA recommends that Swiss nationals in Ukraine leave the country by their own means if possible and safe to do so. Otherwise, they are advised to stay in a safe place. The instructions of the local authorities must be observed and the necessary precautions taken. Swiss nationals requiring assistance should contact by phone the FDFA Helpline.
Russia's unprecedented military attack on a sovereign European country was the deciding factor in the Federal Council's decision to change its previous stance on sanctions. At its extraordinary meeting on 28 February, the Federal Council took the decision to adopt the EU sanctions against Russia and thus strengthen their impact. These are primarily goods and financial sanctions. The assets of the persons and companies listed in the annex to the ordinance are frozen with immediate effect; the ban on entering into new business relationships remains in place.
Switzerland is also implementing the financial sanctions imposed by the EU on Russian President Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov with immediate effect. In so doing, Switzerland is responding to the serious violations of international law for which these individuals are responsible. The ban on imports, exports and investments concerning Crimea and Sevastopol, which has been in place since 2014, has been extended to the Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, which are no longer under the control of the Ukrainian government.
The Federal Council has also decided to partially suspend the 2009 agreement on visa facilitation for Russian nationals. In addition – in line with airspace closures in other European countries – Swiss airspace will be closed to all flights from Russia and to all movements of aircraft with Russian markings from 3pm on Monday with the exception of flights for humanitarian, medical or diplomatic purposes.
In reaching its decisions, the Federal Council took Switzerland’s neutrality and peace policy considerations into account. It reaffirmed Switzerland's willingness to actively contribute to a solution to the conflict through its good offices.
Within the next few days, Switzerland will deliver around 25 tonnes of relief supplies to the Polish capital Warsaw worth around 400’000 Swiss francs, part of the first Swiss aid package amounting to 8 million Swiss francs. The Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) is providing urgently needed medical supplies and medicines from the Armed Forces Pharmacy. The relief supplies are intended for the Ukrainian population in Ukraine and in neighbouring states. Staff from the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit will accompany the aid shipment.
The convoy with evacuees from Kyiv has recently arrived on Polish territory. All passengers are in good health. The convoy consists of eight employees of the Swiss Embassy, two accompanying persons and a small group of people with Swiss connections. The onward journey to Switzerland is organized by the Swiss Embassy in Warsaw. The convoy is accompanied by security specialists of the FDFA and members of the army, who had already supported the embassy in emergency planning before the evacuation.
Today, the President of the Swiss Confederation, Ignazio Cassis, opened the 49th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva. In his speech he addressed the current situation in Ukraine: "We are witnessing a development that most of us would not have thought possible. War is once again raging in the middle of Europe. I am deeply saddened that we have to observe this today in Geneva, the city of peace, human rights, humanitarian spirit and multilateralism."
President Cassis expressed sympathy with the millions of people affected by the war in Ukraine and reiterated that the Federal Council strongly condemns Russian aggression. He added that Switzerland calls on all parties involved in the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and human rights. He expressed his conviction "that the human rights institutions in Geneva can make an important contribution to the protection of human rights and international humanitarian law in Ukraine."
Via Twitter, President Cassis expresses Switzerland's sympathy with the people of Ukraine.
Due to the deteriorating security situation, the FDFA decided to evacuate the transferable staff of the Embassy in Kyiv not needed on site.
Nine embassy employees were evacuated, as well as three accompanying persons who had remained on site. In addition, a small group of persons with a connection to Switzerland were evacuated.
On 25 February 2022 the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER modified Annex 3 of the Ordinance on measures to prevent the circumvention of international sanctions in relation to the situation in Ukraine.
Annex 3 (Prohibition of new business relationships) is being extended in accordance with several decisions taken by the EU. This is to prevent a circumvention via Swiss territory of the targeted sanctions adopted by the EU on 21 and 23 February.
These modifications enter into force at 6pm today.
Today, President Cassis made a statement on Russia's military intervention in Ukraine. The Federal Council had previously discussed the situation in Ukraine in an extraordinary meeting and also made decisions regarding sanctions against Russia. The Federal Council condemns Russia's military intervention in the strongest possible terms. It calls on Russia to immediately withdraw its troops from Ukrainian territory.
"Today is a sad day, a day we haven't seen for a long time. A day like we never wanted to see again. An armed conflict has begun on European ground. A situation that could not be prevented despite all diplomatic efforts. The current crisis does not only concern Russia and Ukraine. It affects the whole of Europe," President Cassis said in his statement.
The Head of the FDFA also addressed the situation at the Swiss Embassy in Kyiv in his statement. Due to the escalation of violence, the embassy has been closed until further notice, but remains accessible by phone. The transferable staff are working on the premises of the Embassy and will not be evacuated for the time being.
The Federal Council discussed the situation in eastern Ukraine at its meeting of 23 February 2022. It condemns Russia's recognition of two regions as independent states as a violation of international law and a breach of Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty. The Federal Council wishes to ensure that Switzerland will not be used as a platform to circumnavigate sanctions imposed by the EU and is therefore examining the sanctions closely.
Die Anerkennung der zwei Republiken Donetsk und Luhansk durch Russland ist eine Verletzung der territorialen Integrität und der Souveränität der Ukraine. Russland verletzt dadurch internationales Völkerrecht. Dies unterstrich EDA-Staatssekretärin Livia Leu heute an einer Medienkonferenz. Die Schweiz verurteile diese Verletzungen der Souveränität und territorialen Integrität der Ukraine durch Russland. Sie anerkennt die Unabhängigkeit dieser Gebiete nicht, sie sind nach wie vor Teil des ukrainischen Staatsgebiets.
Mit der Unterzeichnung der Dekrete «über die Anerkennung der Donetsker und Luhansker sogenannten Volksrepubliken» durch Präsident Wladimir Putin am 21. Februar 2022 hat Russland die nicht-regierungskontrollierten Gebiete im Osten der Ukraine als unabhängige Staaten anerkannt. Haben haben die beiden Kammern des russischen Parlaments die Verträge ratifiziert.
Staatssekretärin Leu äussert sich sehr beunruhigt über die Entsendung russischer Truppen in diese Gebiete. Es bestehe eine akute Gefahr, dass das Gewaltverbot dadurch verletzt wird. Die Schweiz ruft deshalb alle Seiten auf, das Völkerrecht, namentlich das humanitäre Völkerrecht einzuhalten, und unterstützt nachdrücklich den Vorrang des Völkerrechts. Diese Haltung wurde auch dem russischen Botschafter in der Schweiz mitgeteilt, der heute Vormittag ins EDA zitiert wurde.
Im Hinblick auf den Konflikt in der Ostukraine, der seit acht Jahren andauert, hat sich die Schweiz seit Beginn für eine friedliche Lösung im Rahmen der von der OSZE geleiteten Friedensverhandlungen, der Trilateralen Kontaktgruppe, eingesetzt. Auch im Zusammenhang mit der jüngsten Eskalation steht die Schweiz im Kontakt mit ihren Partnern, um abzuklären, wie die OSZE im Hinblick auf die Deeskalation unterstützt werden kann. Staatssekretärin Leu unterstrich, dass die Schweiz einen Dialog mit allen Seiten unterhält und bereit ist, aktiv zur Entspannung der Lage beizutragen – auch im Rahmen ihrer Guten Dienste.
Bei der Schweizer Botschaft in Kyiv sind derzeit 296 Schweizer Staatsangehörige registriert. Dabei handle es sich um Schweizer Bürgerinnen und Bürger, Doppelbürgerinnen und -bürger sowie Familienangehörige von Schweizer Staatsangehörigen, sagte Hans-Peter Lenz, Chef des Krisenmanagement-Zentrums (KMZ) im EDA. Zehn registrierte Personen leben laut Lenz in der Region Donetsk. «Das EDA kümmert sich um die Schweizer Staatsangehörigen und ist regelmässig per Telefon oder E-Mail mit ihnen in Kontakt», sagte der KMZ-Chef.
Die Schweizer Botschaft in Kyiv sei offen und operationell, sagte Lenz. Sie erbringe im normalen Rahmen konsularische Dienstleistungen und nehme ihre diplomatischen Aufgaben wahr. «Das Personal der Botschaft ist wohlauf», so Lenz weiter.
