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Switzerland sets the tone at UN conference on women's participation in public life and decision-making

15.03.2021 — Press release EDA
The 65th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) will open on Monday 15 March 2021 in New York. The main focus of this year's session will be on the effective participation of women in decision-making in public life and on the elimination of violence against women. The Swiss delegation is led by Federal Councillor Alain Berset.

Federal Council concludes privileges and immunities agreement with GARDP

10.03.2021 — Press release EDA
The Federal Council and the Global Antibiotic Research & Development Partnership (GARDP) signed an agreement on 10 March 2021 concerning the privileges and immunities of the organisation in Switzerland. The GARDP plays a major role in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

Women's Human Rights app: Switzerland presents its digital tool for women's rights

08.03.2021 — Press release EDA
On this year's International Women's Day, the FDFA will present the new improved version of its Women's Human Rights app (W'sHR app). The new version of the app will be launched in New York in the presence of the UN secretary-general and the president of the UN General Assembly. The free app is an innovative digital database on women's rights and gender equality. It can be used to facilitate negotiations and contribute to the efficiency of multilateral processes, putting digitalisation at the service of human rights.

Alleviating suffering and promoting sustainable development: SDC allocates programme contributions for 2021–22

03.03.2021 — Press release EDA
The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) has signed contracts with 27 partner organisations for programme contributions totalling around CHF 270 million for the 2021–22 period. The international programmes of Swiss NGOs contribute to the implementation of the objectives of Switzerland's new International Cooperation Strategy 2021–24.

Peter Düggeli appointed new head of FDFA Communication

02.03.2021 — Press release EDA
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis has appointed Peter Düggeli, Swiss Radio and Television's US correspondent, as the new head of communication at the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). Düggeli will take up his post on 1 April.

Switzerland pledges CHF 14 million for humanitarian aid in Yemen

01.03.2021 — Press release EDA
FDFA head and Vice President of Switzerland Ignazio Cassis pledged a CHF 14 million humanitarian aid package at an online conference to raise funds for the humanitarian crisis in Yemen.

Ensuring international peace and security: climate and security (virtual) (fr)

23.02.2021 — Press release EDA
Bern, 23.02.2021 – Address by the Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis on the occasion of the UN Security Council - Check against delivery

UN Security Council: Statement by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis on climate and security

23.02.2021 — Press release EDA
During an open debate of the UN Security Council, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis expresses Switzerland's views on the impact of climate change on peace and international security. During a high-level debate, the head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) outlines Switzerland's contribution to conflict prevention and why cross-sectoral cooperation is crucial in the fight against climate change.

Ignazio Cassis launches first 'Emna Rumantscha' with Canton of Graubünden

18.02.2021 — Press release EDA
'Rumantsch: in ferm toc Svizra' (Romansh: an essential part of Switzerland). This is the motto under which the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) is launching the first ever Romansh language week in Switzerland and abroad. On 19 February, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis – in collaboration with the Canton of Graubünden and Radiotelevisiun Svizra Rumantscha (RTR) – is inviting people to an online launch event dedicated to Switzerland's fourth national language. Together with the representations abroad, the FDFA wants to promote greater knowledge of the Romansh language and culture, which is a key component of Switzerland's national cohesion.

New Swiss ambassadors

17.02.2021 — Press release EDA
A number of personnel changes have been announced for several Swiss representations abroad and at the head office of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) in Bern for 2020/2021. These changes are part of the usual transfer rotation and are based on appointments made by the Federal Council. The appointment of heads of mission abroad becomes effective following approval by the respective host state.

Ignazio Cassis concludes his African tour in Senegal and The Gambia

13.02.2021 — Press release EDA
Following his visit to Algeria and Mali, the head of the FDFA, Ignazio Cassis, travelled to Senegal on 11 February 2021 for a two-day visit. In Dakar he met Senegalese President Macky Sall and Foreign Minister Aissata Tall Sall. At the centre of discussions were the priorities of Switzerland's new Sub-Saharan Africa Strategy 2021–24 and Swiss engagement in Senegal regarding vocational education and training and digitalisation. Mr Cassis then travelled to The Gambia, where various official meetings and visits were on the programme.

Appointment of the Swiss delegation to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe

12.02.2021 — Press release EDA
On 22 January 2021, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis appointed the 12 members of the Swiss delegation to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe (hereafter the Congress) for the period 2021–26. The candidatures were proposed by the Conference of Cantonal Governments, the Swiss Union of Cities and the Association of Swiss Communes. Following formal validation by the Congress Bureau on 12 February 2021, the new delegation can now begin its work in preparation for the renewal session from 23 to 25 March.

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Consultation launched on partial amendment of the Host State Act

31.03.2021 — Press release EDA
The Federal Council has launched on 31.03.2021 a consultation on the partial amendment of the Host State Act. The purpose of amending the legislation is to ensure that the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has favourable conditions for carrying out its international mandate. It follows a request from the ICRC and aims to take into account its particular situation with regard to occupational pension regime.

Swiss hostage killed in Mali identified

31.03.2021 — Press release EDA
The remains of the Swiss hostage killed in Mali have been found and identified. The woman's body will be repatriated to Switzerland as soon as possible. During his visit to Mali in February 2021 Federal Councillor Cassis discussed the matter at the highest level of government, urging for this case to be resolved.

Dubai World Expo: Swiss Pavilion completed

30.03.2021 — Press release EDA
Switzerland has just completed the construction of its pavilion at Dubai World Expo. This is the final stretch before the opening of one of this year's most anticipated events, on 1 October 2021, under the theme 'Connecting Minds, Creating the Future.' The expo will provide a platform for exchange to more than 190 participating countries. It will position Switzerland and promote its economy in the United Arab Emirates, Switzerland's most important trading partner in the MENA region.

Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis receives IFAD President Gilbert Houngbo

30.03.2021 — Press release EDA
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis met with the President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Gilbert Houngbo, on Tuesday 30 March 2021. Both sides reaffirmed their joint commitment to further reducing rural poverty and hunger worldwide.

Europe was the main continent of residence for Swiss citizens abroad in 2020

30.03.2021 — Press release EDA
At the end of 2020, more than one in ten Swiss citizens lived abroad. Almost two thirds lived in Europe, notably in France. Their number increased by 0.7% compared with 2019. The increase in the number of persons aged 65 and over was the most marked (+2.8%). Overall, the share of women remained greater than that of men, according to the results of the statistics on the Swiss abroad from the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).

Presentation of credentials

30.03.2021 — Press release EDA
Presentation of credentials ceremony of the new Ambassadors in Switzerland

10 years of conflict in Syria: Switzerland commits to peace and helps with 60 million of francs

30.03.2021 — Press release EDA
Switzerland has pledged an additional 60 million of francs to help the Syrian population in Syria and the region, which has been facing war for ten years. FDFA Deputy State Secretary Johannes Matyassy announced this amount on 30 March 2021 on the occasion of the 5th High Level Conference chaired by the UN and the EU. He also reaffirmed Switzerland's support for the UN peace process and respect for international law in Syria. Since 2011, Switzerland has provided more than half a billion Swiss francs to help civilians affected by the conflict.

Switzerland calls for full, equal and meaningful participation and rights of women

27.03.2021 — Press release EDA
Yesterday marked the final sitting of the 65th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in New York. Switzerland is pleased that agreed conclusions were adopted, and reiterates its commitment to further advancing gender equality and women's rights.

Human Rights Council adopts two Swiss-led initiatives

23.03.2021 — Press release EDA
The Human Rights Council (HRC) in Geneva today closed its 46th regular session after over four weeks of work, held virtually. Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis participated in the opening segment together with 120 high-level officials. During the session, the HRC adopted two initiatives presented by Switzerland and its partner States . The first resolution extended the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment. The second underlined the importance of universal participation of all UN Member States in the work of the HRC.

Diversified relations, constructively critical dialogue – Federal Council adopts China Strategy

19.03.2021 — Press release EDA
The Federal Council adopted a public strategy for China for the first time at its meeting on 19 March 2021. The Strategy sets out the objectives and measures for Swiss policy on China for the 2021–24 period. The Federal Council recognises the importance of China, and intends the Strategy to create greater coherence in Switzerland's activities with this important partner.

UN Office on Drugs and Crime Executive Director Ghada Waly in Bern

18.03.2021 — Press release EDA
Today in Bern Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), received the executive director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Ms Ghada Waly. Talks focused on Switzerland's and the UNODC's practices in dealing with corruption and how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted on the UN offices in Vienna and Geneva.

Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis receives North Macedonian Foreign Minister Bujar Osmani

17.03.2021 — Press release EDA
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis received Foreign Minister of North Macedonia Bujar Osmani on a courtesy visit to Bern on 17 March 2021. Mr Osmani was in Switzerland for a meeting with representatives of his country’s diaspora. The exchange focused on bilateral relations and Switzerland's significant involvement in North Macedonia.

Other news (297)

Federal Council expands cooperation with the UN on military peace support training

20.11.2019 — EDA
At its meeting on 20 November 2019, the Federal Council approved an agreement between Switzerland and the UN on training cooperation in the context of international peace support. The agreement will provide a legal framework for closer longer-term cooperation between Switzerland and the UN in the training sector.

US statements on Israeli settlements: Switzerland’s statement

19.11.2019 — EDA
Following yesterday's American statements on Israeli settlements, Switzerland confirms its position.

The Federal Council concludes an agreement on privileges and immunities with the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers’ Association

18.11.2019 — EDA
On 18 November 2019 Switzerland and the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers’ Association (ICoCA) signed an agreement on the privileges and immunities accorded to the association in Switzerland. ICoCA plays a major role in ensuring compliance with the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers and in promoting the responsible provision of security services.

UNESCO General Conference: Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis advocates Executive Board seat for Switzerland

14.11.2019 — EDA
Speaking at the UNESCO General Conference in Paris, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis called for minorities to be respected, pointing out that this is essential to democratic processes. He also said that Switzerland supports the reform proposals intended to enhance the organisation’s effectiveness and explained the strengths Switzerland can bring to the UNESCO Executive Board. Switzerland is campaigning to gain a seat on the Executive Board in the election on 20 November 2019.

Zukunftstag 2019: Was die jungen Gäste im EDA beeindruckte (de/fr/it)

14.11.2019 — EDA
Rund 90 Kinder und Jugendliche haben am Zukunftstag 2019 ihren Eltern oder Bekannten bei der Arbeit im Eidgenössischen Departement für auswärtige Angelegenheiten EDA über die Schulter und hinter die Kulissen des Departements geschaut. Generalsekretär Markus Seiler zeigte den jungen Gästen das Bundesratszimmer sowie das Büro von Bundesrat Ignazio Cassis, der sich an diesem Tag in Paris befand. An verschiedenen Workshops konnten die Kinder und Jugendlichen verschiedene Aspekte aus der Arbeit des EDA vertieft kennenlernen und eine Medienmitteilung schreiben.

UNESCO General Conference (fr)

14.11.2019 — EDA
Paris, 14.11.2019 – Speech by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis – Check against delivery

Linking of the Swiss and EU emissions trading systems: Federal Council approves revision of the CO2 Ordinance

13.11.2019 — EDA
At its meeting on 13 November 2019, the Federal Council approved the revised Ordinance on the Reduction of CO2 Emissions. This, together with the amendment to the CO2 Act adopted in March 2019 and the agreement with the EU, will enter into force on 1 January 2020. From 2020, emissions from civil aviation and fossil fuel power stations will also be included in the Swiss ETS, as is already the case in the EU. Linking the two schemes allows companies in the Swiss ETS to trade emission allowances in the larger EU emissions market.

Escalation of violence between Israel and Gaza – statement by the FDFA

12.11.2019 — EDA
The FDFA is closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East and calls on all parties to restore calm immediately.

Education, environment and protection of minorities – Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis travels to UNESCO General Conference in Paris

12.11.2019 — EDA
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will represent Switzerland at the UNESCO General Conference on 14 November 2019. The head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) will call for respect for minorities, which is a key element of the democratic process. New members of the UNESCO Executive Board will also be elected during the three-week session. Switzerland – one of the candidates – is one of the biggest contributors to UNESCO measured by population.

FDFA calls for end to violence and new elections in Bolivia

11.11.2019 — EDA
The FDFA is closely following recent political developments in Bolivia with concern and calls for new elections to reflect the political will of the people. The FDFA stands ready to support Bolivia in preparing for such elections.

International Law Day 2019: FDFA Directorate of International Law launches discussion on 'soft law'

08.11.2019 — EDA
The FDFA Directorate of International Law (DIL) held its annual International Law Day on 8 November. This year’s event focused on soft law. The event provided an opportunity to discuss this topical issue in the presence of Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis and a broad audience, and in particular to consider how to better involve Parliament in soft law matters.

Swiss woman injured in Jordan

06.11.2019 — EDA
The FDFA is assisting a Swiss woman wounded in a knife attack on 6 November in the Jordanian city of Jerash. She has received medical treatment and her life is not in danger. Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis was informed directly by his counterpart, Jordan's Minister of Foreign Affairs Ayman Safadi, who reassured him that the Swiss tourist is being cared for in Jordan.

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