Russia's war on Ukraine pushes Switzerland to reconsider its security strategy
Photo: Swiss Federal Criminal Court (Getty Images)
Switzerland has adopted a new security strategy amid Russia's war against Ukraine and the rise of hybrid threats. The document outlines 46 measures to strengthen the country's resilience, protect critical infrastructure, and enhance its defense capabilities, according to Anadolu.
The country's government notes that the international security situation is becoming increasingly unstable and unpredictable. Among the reasons cited are intensifying rivalry among major powers, armed conflicts, and the weakening of the international order.
Switzerland specifically emphasizes that there is no end in sight to Russia's war against Ukraine. At the same time, the number of cyberattacks, influence operations, and other hybrid threats is on the rise.
What new strategy envisages
Switzerland's Security Strategy for 2026 identifies three main priorities.
The first is to strengthen the resilience of the state, the economy, and society. This involves, in particular, reducing vulnerabilities and critical dependencies.
The second is to improve the protection of the civilian population, government institutions, and critical infrastructure.
The third is to strengthen defense capabilities. Switzerland must be capable of effectively countering an armed attack, and the necessary capabilities and cooperation with partner states must be prepared in advance.
In total, the document contains 10 objectives and 46 specific measures. Priority will be given to countering the most likely threats—hybrid and remote attacks, as well as organized crime within the country.
The Swiss government also emphasizes the need to protect critical infrastructure, which is becoming more vulnerable due to the high level of interconnectivity among various systems.
When will the strategy be implemented?
The Federal Council states that implementation of the measures has already begun. The State Secretariat for Security Policy will coordinate this work.
The government plans to receive the first progress report on the implementation of the strategy by the end of 2028.
Neutral Switzerland is pushing to deepen its ties with the EU. Justice Minister Beat Jans explained the need for the agreement by citing the deteriorating geopolitical situation.
Last year, the head of the Swiss Armed Forces stated that the country was unable to defend itself against a full-scale attack.
