International Security Division

Changed threat situation due to globalisation and economic integration; broad focus of Swiss security policy; cooperation with the EU, NATO, the OSCE and the UN

Growing security risks include transnational threats rather than wars with armed forces; the misuse of cyberspace, terrorism, the arms trade, weapons of mass destruction, greater disparity between rich and poor, migration and dependence on fossil fuels

Lasting security at the lowest possible level of armaments as the basic principle of Swiss security and foreign policy

Switzerland controls the import, export, transit and brokerage of goods. It implements international rules designed to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the stockpiling of conventional weapons, and which serve to implement sanctions.

Private security services have expanded significantly over a number of years. Growing awareness of the risks posed by these types of services have prompted policymakers to take initiatives to regulate this sector more effectively.

The Act is applicable to legal persons, natural persons and business associations that provide, from Switzerland, private security services abroad.