Review of Switzerland's UN Security Council seat

The Swiss delegation to the Security Council focused on four main areas: building sustainable peace, protecting civilians, enhancing the Council's effectiveness and addressing climate security. These are the same priority fields of action as for Swiss diplomacy and peace policy.

The FDFA's overall evaluation of Switzerland's first Security Council membership is positive. As the Council is a reflection of global power politics and its growing polarisation, it is not flawless – but it is still a key instrument for maintaining international peace. Despite global crises such as the war in Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East, Switzerland was able to make an impact and contribute to the Council's ability to act.

Outcomes

The Swiss delegation introduced key initiatives and set important priorities during its Council membership, such as Resolution 2730 on the protection of humanitarian and UN personnel in conflict zones. This was tabled by Switzerland, which also chaired a Council meeting resulting in a presidential statement (PRST 2024/6) on the impact of scientific developments on peace and security. In addition, Switzerland organised a visit of Council members to Geneva to mark the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, which enshrine humanitarian protection in international law. During its membership period, Switzerland maintained its advocacy for compliance with international law, particularly international humanitarian law and human rights, in all relevant contexts.

Cooperation with Federal Council and Parliament

As agreed prior to taking up the Swiss seat on the Security Council, the FDFA ensured that all decisions of major importance to domestic or foreign policy were taken in close consultation with the Federal Council and the Foreign Affairs Committees. The FDFA also made regular reports to the Federal Council and Parliament on Security Council developments so as to ensure transparency and coordination in terms of Swiss foreign policy.

Setting the course for the future

These last two years have shown that Switzerland has the necessary skills and diplomatic experience to assume responsibility in multilateral bodies again in future. With its membership of the UN Human Rights Council (2025–27) and OSCE chairpersonship (2026), Switzerland continues to be an active voice, contributing to a rules-based world order and more peaceful future.

Further information:

Switzerland on the UN Security Council

The Federal Council
Federal Department of Foreign Affairs