Published on 18 September 2025

Switzerland's priorities

Switzerland has set out five priorities for its 2026 chairpersonship: the Helsinki Principles - for lasting peace; inclusive multilateral diplomacy; anticipating technologies – for a safe and humane future; democracy, the rule of law and human rights; and the OSCE's ability to act.

On 18 September, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, as future OSCE Chairman-in-Office, presented Switzerland's priorities to the OSCE Permanent Council. — © FDFA

Switzerland's priorities

Switzerland has set out five thematic priorities for its 2026 chairpersonship.

Helsinki Principles - for lasting peace

In the face of war in Europe, Switzerland is committed to a just peace in Ukraine, based on international law and the Helsinki principles. It will bring its mediation experience to the service of dialogue, trust, and security.

Inclusive multilateral diplomacy

In the only platform bringing together Europe, the United States, and Russia, Switzerland will foster an open dialogue on security. It will encourage cooperation on cybersecurity, politico-military instruments, and conflict prevention, relying on its neutrality and tradition of facilitation.

Anticipating technologies – for a safe and humane future

Technologies are transforming our future. Switzerland will promote governance centered on human needs, linking science and diplomacy, notably in water, energy, and digital security.

Democracy, the rule of law and human rights

Switzerland will strengthen the role of democratic institutions and the protection of fundamental freedoms. It will support OSCE field missions and election observation, so that democracy and human rights remain at the heart of European security.

OSCE's ability to act

Despite tensions, the OSCE remains indispensable. Each crisis underlines the need for reform. Switzerland will address this need to preserve the basic instruments – missions, election observation – and to ensure their financing.