Swiss Mediation in a Changing World

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jepyerly@websud.ch 2026-08-12 08:02

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There are too many federal elected representatives who are nothing but smooth talkers, with no professional experience, and incapable of recognising our country’s strengths and weaknesses. The public sector, which is the source of excessive bureaucracy – with little work and high salaries – is over-represented. We need real leaders – honest, talented, respectful, hard-working and effective. All of this undermines our credibility both at home and abroad.

Trop d' élus fédéraux, constitués de beaux parleurs, sans expérience professionnelle , incapables de constater les forces et les faiblesses de notre Pays. Le secteur tertiaire , à l'origine d'une administration excessive ,avec peu de travail et de grands salaires, est trop représentée. Nous avons besoin de vrais patrons .honnêtes, talentueux , respectueux , travailleurs et efficace. Tout cela , freine notre crédibilité à l'interne et à l'externe.

swisstester123@gmail.com 2026-08-10 10:22

No. Those days are gone and over.__Switzerland is not a global broker for these things any longer. Sad but true.

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AMJED 2026-07-07 15:59

The following contribution has been automatically translated from FR.

Switzerland is a model of social harmony – linguistic, organisational and economic – and serves as a living example to other societies of how to achieve stability and develop their human and legal infrastructure.

La Suisse est un modèle d'harmonie sociale – linguistique, organisationnelle et économique – et sert d'exemple vivant aux autres sociétés pour atteindre la stabilité et développer leur infrastructure humaine et juridique.

swisstester123@gmail.com 2026-08-10 10:21

@AMJED

Porsche is an example of great engineering and manufacturing and after sales care. Does it mean every car manufacturer can be Porsche

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Urban S 2026-07-04 16:05

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

Yes, of course, Switzerland can always play a valuable role as a mediator. Global neutrality is not, in itself, a prerequisite for this. What is important is that the parties to the conflict regard Switzerland as neutral on the matter in question. __It is not essential to demand global neutrality as a prerequisite (for acting as a mediator) (as many of the comments here appear to suggest). __Any country can act as a mediator if those seeking mediation accept this service. __If the values of the mediator are called into question by one of the parties to the conflict, then the mediation will simply be rejected. Another mediator will simply step in, such as Pakistan or Qatar. So what? __But to cast all one’s values aside simply to be credible as a mediator to everyone is absurd.

Ja natürlich kann die Schweiz jederzeit als Vermittler gute Dienste leisten.Globale Neutralität ist dazu per se nicht zwingend. Wichtig ist doch dass die Konfliktparteien die Schweiz im betreffenden Konflikt als in der Sache neutral betrachten. __Unbedingt Globale Neutralität als eine Voraussetzung ( um als Vermittler aktiv zu sein) zu verlangen (wie viele der Kommentare hier offenbar postulieren ) ist nicht zwingend. __Jedes Land kann als Vermittler auftreten wenn die Vermittlung Suchenden diesen Dienst akzeptieren. __Wenn die Wertvorstellungen des Vermittelnden von einer der betreffenden Konfliktparteien in Frage gestellt werden, dann wird der gute Dienst halt abgelehnt. Kommt halt ein anderer Vermittler wie z.B. Pakistan oder Qatar. Was solls? __Aber alle Wertvorstellungen über Bord zu werfen nur um jedem als Vermittler glaubwürdig zu sein ist absurd.

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Ying Zhang SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2026-07-08 08:50

@Urban S

Thank you so much for sharing such insightful views

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AquahoodJD 2026-07-03 21:01

Dear SWI,

I believe that Switzerland—at least at the population level—is very concerned about balancing our neutrality with our ability to remain economically competitive.
As a country, I think we are the correct location for the United Nations headquarters, and Geneva should become the permanent home of the General Assembly. The New York facility was chosen at the inception of the United Nations, but international relations are diplomatically complex. The UN is currently located in a country that has very little experience with complex diplomatic matters, where national politics frequently obstruct international diplomacy.

People from nations experiencing internal civil strife or disputes with other countries would find that Switzerland is already equipped to handle these delicate situations. We can provide a platform for those whom other countries might deny entry or silence for internal political reasons, focusing instead on the ultimate goals of global diplomacy: peace and human rights.

While several organizations already do this, the headquarters of the United Nations should undoubtedly be here. Through its actions and deeds—especially in recent years—New York has shown itself to be an inadequate and biased host for global diplomacy. They clearly pick and choose who they will allow into the country and which issues are deemed important based on their local and national political will at the time.

The United States has proven to be quite an awful host for such an organization, whereas Geneva and Switzerland have a long, proven history of serving the global community in this capacity.

As the only direct democracy in the world, the people of Switzerland wish to maintain this status and guard this unique part of our culture. At the same time, conflicting parties are more comfortable coming here to resolve their disputes. If countries lack diplomatic relations or have severed them during an ongoing dispute, there is always third-tier diplomacy.

Historically and currently, this is carried out by organizations like Caux Initiatives of Change (formerly Moral Re-Armament). Operating out of the chateau above Montreux, they share space with an international hospitality school; the students are trained in various disciplines and also serve as staff when high-level, third-tier diplomacy takes place there.

When Kofi Annan responded to United States military actions that defied the United Nations, he held the General Assembly in Geneva. Geneva boasts a fully functioning General Assembly area and a campus perfectly suited for holding such meetings. In fact, most world powers maintain larger embassies in Geneva—to deal with the World Trade Organization and the 50% of UN bodies operating there—than they do in Bern.

The emergency General Assembly area is currently maintained for specific contingencies, but it is more than adequate to host the General Assembly and the Security Council. Furthermore, the international missions representing world governments in Geneva are typically larger and better staffed than those representing their countries directly to Switzerland.
Additionally, the headquarters of the Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders, and a whole host of other incredibly important international non-governmental organizations are located in Geneva. This does nothing but foster cooperation between these NGOs and the various UN departments with which they work so closely.

We are already the headquarters for the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the International Labour Organization, and the World Food Programme. The emergency chamber for the General Assembly is a beautiful, well-maintained building that provides a much more appropriate atmosphere for these kinds of discussions, perfectly situated in an officially neutral country.

Even though we have joined the United Nations, I believe Switzerland’s real power should be as an observer. We should only be involved in hosting and mediating. We have proven ourselves highly capable of acting as a mediator between countries, both now and in the past.

I would be happy to see Switzerland withdraw as a full member of the UN and be granted the status of permanent mediator. Concurrently, the UN headquarters should be moved to Geneva, utilizing the existing General Assembly room and Security Council facilities. The United States tends to mix its national politics with the UN in a way that belittles the organization—such as briefly withdrawing from the WHO, which was perhaps one of the most absurd and ridiculous moves ever made by a sitting president.
Due to social media and news overload, people tend to have very short memories. Many forget there was a first version of what people call COVID-19 (the official name of this current disease being SARS-CoV-2). During the first outbreak of SARS, all countries immediately looked to the WHO, which instituted a fantastic response with the full support of member states. That epidemic never became an endemic disease because it was stopped cold. Within one to two months, using modern techniques of contact tracing, isolation, and treatment, they quickly identified and treated exposed individuals.

During the second outbreak of the disease, every country seemingly wanted to go its own way, treating it as a political issue rather than a medical one. We pay top experts in virology and epidemiology to determine exactly how to contain outbreaks at the international level. They are very good at their jobs—if countries actually listen to them.

Instead, everybody wanted to grandstand and push their own views rather than following the medical evidence and the advice of the world's best public health professionals, who spend every day dealing with disease outbreaks and population health. Ignoring these experts is like asking a janitor, a home builder, or an investment advisor about the best way to treat cancer. It is unreasonable, irrational, and ignorant.
While the United States technically donates the most money to the UN, they are frequently behind in their payments. They often suspend payments for reasons related to their national politics rather than international diplomacy, and they frequently fail to fulfill their obligations as the host of the General Assembly.
They hold the General Assembly and the Security Council to their own standards by using their obligatory donations—funding they agreed to provide based on their national GDP—as leverage.

Because they are very comfortable extorting their own states to get what they want at the federal level, it is no problem for them to use the same tactics internationally. Withholding money to force a political issue is legalized extortion. It sets a terrible example for any organization, including their own government. They do this frequently domestically using their commerce clause: they collect taxes nationally to pay for the highway system, then threaten to withhold a state's highway funding unless that state passes certain legislation that the federal government lacks the constitutional authority to mandate directly. It is a very negative example of a democracy.

The federal government has largely usurped the police powers that the US founders originally reserved for local and state governments. Trying to regulate these matters at the national level is unwieldy, generally seen as unfair, and fails to account for the size, cultural variation, and local values within the United States.
They apply the same reactive tactics at the international level whenever they face an issue they don't support. We do not do that here in Switzerland. We have independent tax collection authorities at the Cantonal level, and we do not extort our cantons or subvert their local powers to force legislation that should be decided by the people living in that specific Canton.

This is a perfect analogy for why the United States should not host the General Assembly, and why member states should pay their dues regardless of whether they agree with the outcome of a particular policy. Being part of the international community is about fostering peace and preventing war.

However, the United States does not seem very interested in stopping war. This was a strong concern held by JFK, who warned against a powerful military-industrial base, much like former WWII hero and General, President Eisenhower. Eisenhower was deeply concerned about the immense power vested in defense corporations like the Carlyle Group, Northrop Grumman, and Boeing.

Given that the US tends to shoot first and deal with diplomacy later—and treats almost everything as a "war," including substance use, which is a medical issue—they have no business hosting the United Nations. Half the time they are threatening to withhold funding or pull out of international organizations entirely. Let them.

The rest of the world will keep going, trying to promote peace, improve our species, and prevent the outbreak of another global war, which would likely be our last and result in our extinction.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is one of the most important diplomatic documents ever created; as Madeleine Albright noted, it stands alongside the Magna Carta in granting inherent human rights and demonstrating the evolution of our species. From the moment Putin decided to restart the Cold War—envisioning himself as Peter the Great and citing NATO expansion as a pretext to invade Ukraine—we have needed a strong United Nations more than ever.
We need a strong UN that is not hosted by a country routinely involved in major global disputes. Switzerland is highly skilled at managing these matters and serving as a mediator, both historically and today. Swiss embassies frequently serve as the diplomatic missions for countries that lack diplomatic ties due to disputes (for example, representing US interests in Cuba).
I would like to see more people made aware of third-tier diplomacy in their political science classes, and learn about the NGOs that specialize in bringing opposing sides together to talk, even when official channels are closed.

I want to see this country revert closer to its strict neutrality status, focusing on developing our mediating skills and providing those services. At the same time, we must make it extraordinarily clear that foreign nations are not permitted to engage in bad behavior on our soil against our citizens or our visitors.

There was a time when Israeli agents were caught conducting illegal operations in our country, and we kicked their entire diplomatic staff out and froze their bank accounts until they agreed never to do it again. We should take a tough stance on this every single day. We must make it clear that foreign agents are not welcome here to intimidate people working for the ICC in an arbitration capacity, NGO workers, or UN diplomats.

Our own citizens must also be completely off-limits for any type of international harassment by nation-states, and our government must back that up with clear action against offending countries—in this case, I am referring to the Russian Federation. I have been trying to get MDMA treatment for my severe complex post-traumatic stress disorder resulting from their behavior here in Switzerland. I am a Swiss citizen, and a secondary effect of this disorder nearly cost me my life two months ago. Yet, Swissmedic is denying me access to a medication that, alongside therapy, has an 83% cure rate within six months.

I am a lawyer who was inadvertently—and perhaps naively—caught in a geopolitical incident. At the time, our federal government was still drunk on the ideology that war in Europe was over and felt they could defund intelligence and security agencies because we allegedly didn't need to protect our citizens from bad international actors. I was a victim of that era, and I am still trying to recover. I am very upset with my country's behavior.

Despite this, I still feel privileged to be a citizen. But denying me curative medicine—which I consider a violation of the Hippocratic Oath—and the fact that I was left vulnerable to a geopolitical incident in the world's most important diplomatic country is absolutely absurd.

There is no question that this molecule is safe and highly effective, backed by over 40 clinical trials. This is a prime example of how our country needs to protect its citizens. If we are to remain a mediator, we cannot tolerate bad behavior from foreign countries while they are guests in our country.

There should be no bad behavior against the guests we are hosting, and absolutely no bad behavior against our own citizens. We should have immediately expelled their diplomatic staff, frozen their accounts, and told them that if they wanted a seat back at the table, they had to reimburse the victim and pledge never to do it again. My situation is no longer a secret; so many people, including the government, know about it that it is somewhat ridiculous I haven't spoken out more publicly.

I still believe this is one of the best countries in the world, and we genuinely strive to improve on a daily basis. The fact that we have one of the most excellent democracies allows us, as a population, to make these decisions. We have an education system that focuses on critical thinking, which is essential for the awesome privilege of voting on every major decision.
Even Lee Kuan Yew, the founder of modern-day Singapore, was enamored with our country and tried to copy many of our institutions, right down to the style and color of the passport.

I am lucky and privileged to be a Swiss citizen. We have amazing healthcare, superior education, and a political system that allows us to thrive as an independent, neutral nation. We are the natural choice to serve as mediators for those who are having disputes and lack our experience in consensus-building.

Today is my birthday and I've been trying for four years to gain access to a life saving "compassionate use" medication that could change my life and allow to live out the rest of my life and perhaps again experience life, happiness, and love. I am a victim of bad international actors but I still believe this is the best country in the world to host the world's diplomatic community.

Love live the Confederacy!

JLM

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Ying Zhang SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2026-07-08 09:21

@AquahoodJD

Dear JLM, thank you very much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful and detailed comment. It is clear from your observations that you have a deep interest in, and understanding of, international relations, diplomacy, and Switzerland’s unique role in global affairs.__In your comment, you mention that, as a lawyer, you were inadvertently caught up in a geopolitical incident and that the experience led to severe post-traumatic stress disorder. If you feel comfortable doing so, would you be willing to tell us more about what happened and how it has affected you? We believe your experience could help readers better understand the human dimension of international politics and diplomacy.__If you would prefer not to discuss the details publicly, please feel free to contact me directly by email: Ying.Zhang@swissinfo.ch__Thank you again for contributing to this important discussion, and we wish you all the best.

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Alexander Somm1 2026-07-02 17:14

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

Viewed objectively, I believe that Switzerland, as a neutral mediator, has squandered a great deal of trust. When one considers the statements of the UN, the proceedings and assessments of international courts, as well as the reports of numerous UN special rapporteurs, human rights organisations, doctors, nurses, journalists, diplomats and other experts, I am left with the impression that Swiss policymakers have failed to condemn the most serious allegations against Israel – including alleged war crimes, occupation in breach of international law, settlement policy, expulsions and the accusation of genocide – are not condemned with the necessary vigour, and are often not condemned at all. Similarly, it strikes me that Switzerland is conspicuously reticent regarding numerous US military interventions that are controversial under international law; one could even argue that it is complicit. At the same time, we purchase expensive military equipment from these very same states that violate the law and adopt sanctions against Russia, Iran, Venezuela and Palestinian actors, even though in many cases there is no mandate from the UN Security Council to do so.____Added to this is the fact that even renowned Swiss figures are being sanctioned by the Council of the European Union, without rights and without a hearing, whilst our Minister of Justice responds to questions about the implications for the Swiss rule of law with a smile that is hardly convincing. ____Under these circumstances, I find it hard to understand why Switzerland should still be perceived internationally as a credible, independent mediator. A neutral flag in the wind can provide direction. A flag without a flagpole, on the other hand, merely drifts with the wind.

Sachlich betrachtet hat die Schweiz aus meiner Sicht als neutrale Vermittlerin viel Vertrauen verspielt. Betrachtet man die Stellungnahmen der UNO, die Verfahren und Einschätzungen internationaler Gerichte sowie die Berichte zahlreicher UN-Sonderberichterstatter, Menschenrechtsorganisationen, Ärzte, Pflegekräfte, Journalisten, Diplomaten und weiterer Fachleute, entsteht für mich der Eindruck, dass die Schweizer Politik schwerste Vorwürfe gegen Israel – darunter mutmaßliche Kriegsverbrechen, völkerrechtswidrige Besatzung, Siedlungspolitik, Vertreibungen und den Vorwurf des Völkermords – nicht mit der notwendigen Konsequenz, oft sogar gar nicht verurteilt. Ebenso wirkt die Schweiz auf mich gegenüber zahlreichen völkerrechtlich umstrittenen Militärinterventionen der USA auffallend zurückhaltend, man könnte Mittäterschaft argumentieren. Gleichzeitig kaufen wir von denselben, rechtbrechenden Staaten teures Kriegsmaterial und übernehmen Sanktionen gegen Russland, Iran, Venezuela sowie palästinensische Akteure, obwohl dafür vielfach kein Mandat des UNO-Sicherheitsrats besteht.____Hinzu kommt, dass sogar renommierte Schweizer Persönlichkeiten vom EU-Rat sanktioniert werden, ohne Rechte, ohne Gehör, während unser Justizminister auf Fragen zu den Auswirkungen auf den Schweizer Rechtsstaat wenig überzeugend mit einem Lächeln Antwortet. ____Unter diesen Umständen fällt es mir schwer nachzuvollziehen, weshalb die Schweiz international noch als glaubwürdige, unabhängige Vermittlerin wahrgenommen werden sollte. Eine neutrale Fahne im Wind kann Orientierung geben. Eine Fahne ohne Mast hingegen treibt lediglich mit dem Wind.

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Ying Zhang SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2026-07-08 09:49

@Alexander Somm1

I appciate your engagement critically with Switzerland’s role in the Middle East. It is worth noting that, recently, the Swiss parliament voted to reaffirm Switzerland’s support for a two-state solution to the Israeli–Palestinian conflict. Lawmakers called on the government to continue supporting international peace efforts based on relevant UN resolutions and to consider Switzerland as a venue for future negotiations: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/swiss-democracy/middle-east-the-federal-chambers-emphasise-the-two-state-solution/91608153

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Norbert Kurz 2026-07-01 13:17

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Switzerland has abandoned its neutrality by adopting the sanctions against Russia. It is not politicians or the media who determine what constitutes neutrality. In the case of the war in Ukraine, it is actually Russia that determines who remains neutral. __Swiss politicians are essentially being put under pressure by the controlled media (Project Mockingbird). A good example is former Federal Councillor Berset. Following his statement about ‘the war frenzy of some’, he was brought back into line by the media and explained that he had ‘chosen his words poorly’...

Die Schweiz hat ihre Neutralität mit der Übernahme der Sanktionen gegen Russland aufgegeben. Es sind nicht Politiker oder Medien welche bestimmen was neutral ist. Im Fall des Ukrainekriegs, bestimmt eigentlich Russland wer noch neutral ist. __Die Schweizer Politiker werden im Wesentlichen von den gelenkten Medien (Projekt Mockingbird) unter Druck gesetzt. Ein gutes Beispiel ist der ehemalige Bundesrat Berset. Nach seiner Aussage "zum Kriegsrausch einiger", wurde er von den Medien wieder auf Linie gebracht und er erklärte, er habe sich in der "Wortwahl vergriffen"...

Ruth Jilani 2026-06-29 13:57

My deep concerns regarding the current trajectory of Switzerland's foreign policy and its impact on our historical role as a neutral mediator.____Switzerland has compromised its neutral standing for negotiations by participating in sanctions against Russia. Furthermore, recent peace initiatives hosted in Switzerland included Ukraine but excluded Russia, which has severely undermined our credibility and reputation. It appears our political leadership has been overly influenced by external pressures, including the Ukrainian Ambassador and President Zelensky, rather than maintaining our traditional independence.____Additionally, Switzerland has increasingly adopted a practice of refusing dialogue with certain nations, a stance that inherently disqualifies us from serving as an effective mediator. We have shifted from a broad-minded approach capable of managing the larger global picture to one that is heavily influenced by a select group of countries.____This loss of independence is also evident in our silence regarding other global conflicts. We have failed to decisively condemn the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where the bombing of private homes and the deprivation of medical aid, clean water, and food affect countless children. By choosing silence in the face of such brutality and the occupation of a sovereign nation, we have compromised our humanity and our standing as a credible, neutral actor on the world stage.

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Errol 2026-06-24 11:06

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Switzerland plays a leading role in any peace negotiations in Colombia. However, I would like them to take a broader view of other sections of the population who do not agree that the negotiators should be those very people who, for decades, have provided only biased information. Today, guerrilla groups profit from illicit businesses, drugs, illegal mining and kidnapping. The spokespeople for these groups do not represent the real lives of ordinary Colombians.

Suiza es un país preponderante ante cualquier negociación hacia La Paz en Colombia. Pero quisiera que tuviesen una visión mas amplia hacia otros sectores de la población que no estamos deacuerdo que los negociadores sean esos actores que por décadas solo han entregado información parcializada. Hoy los grupos de la guerrilla se lucran de negocios ilícitos, drogas, minería ilegal, secuestro de personas. Los voceros de esos grupos no representan la vida real del ciudadano colombiano.

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Ying Zhang SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2026-06-25 13:29

@Errol

Thank you for sharing your insights from Colombia. We reported last year on Switzerland’s role as a mediator in the Colombian peace talks: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/swiss-position/switzerland-continues-to-support-peace-in-colombia-despite-recent-violence/88936176 ____If I understand correctly, are you questioning the legitimacy of the Colombian parties currently involved in the peace negotiations, namely, the local armed groups that have long been engaged in the armed conflict? Do you believe that the guerrilla groups currently participating in the negotiations do not represent the general Colombian public because these groups have long relied on illicit economies and are associated with violence? I would also very much like to know, from your perspective as a local resident, which community organizations, social institutions, or civil society groups better represent the needs of local residents and should be included as participants in the peace negotiations.

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Jorg Hiker 2026-06-23 17:18

Asia has become the new center of the world, and Switzerland is often seen as irrelevant in mediations between major South and Southeast Asian countries.

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Ying Zhang SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2026-06-25 13:41

@Jorg Hiker

Thank you for sharing your views. The point you raised is very important: as Asia’s standing in global politics and economics continues to rise, there are indeed some who argue that Switzerland’s mediating role in the Asian region is relatively limited. In reality, however, Switzerland is by no means inactive in the region. For example, from 2014 to 2021, at the invitation of the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Switzerland led the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC) to address historical issues and resolve conflicts—though this role may not be readily apparent to the outside world.____I am curious: why do you consider Switzerland to be “irrelevant” in mediation efforts among key countries in South and Southeast Asia? Is it because Asian nations prefer to resolve conflicts within the region, or because Switzerland’s “quiet diplomacy” is not easily visible? Thanks a lot.

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Jorg Hiker 2026-06-26 14:48

@Ying Zhang

Thank you for your interest in my thoughts. Asian countries naturally focus on their own continent. Europe isn't seen as having much influence on global affairs, and Switzerland barely gets noticed at all. You can see this yourself in Asian news outlets online, which rarely mention Switzerland and treat Europe as roughly the fourth most important region in world news. I think Switzerland should be more aware of Asia and pay closer attention to what's happening there economically and politically. A lot of Swiss people I talk to think mostly about Germany, France, and the USA when it comes to international politics, but they don't realize that Asian countries are the ones actually shaping what happens in the world—including things that affect Switzerland.

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Jorg Hiker 2026-06-26 14:50

@Ying Zhang

I find this unfortunate, of course, but ignoring the reality is worse.

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Ying Zhang SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2026-06-30 14:50

@Jorg Hiker

Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I feel the same, Switzerland has room to grow when it comes to developing a more systematic and in‑depth understanding of Asia. I recommend reading this opinion piece written by two scholars from the University of Zurich for Swissinfo; it offers valuable insights:__https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/foreign-affairs/the-expertise-gap-swiss-academia-lacks-expertise-in-asias-international-relations/89280717

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Ying Zhang SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2026-06-30 14:51

@Jorg Hiker

Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I feel the same, Switzerland has room to grow when it comes to developing a more systematic and in‑depth understanding of Asia. I recommend reading this opinion piece written by two scholars from the University of Zurich for Swissinfo; it offers valuable insights:__https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/foreign-affairs/the-expertise-gap-swiss-academia-lacks-expertise-in-asias-international-relations/89280717

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Bernard Moret 2026-06-23 09:52

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When it comes to mediation between Western countries, yes; for the rest of the world, it would depend on the parties involved. For example, I cannot see Switzerland replacing Pakistan in mediation between Iran and the United States.

Pour des mediations entre pays occidentaux, oui; pour le reste du monde, cela dependrait des interlocuteurs. Par exemple, je ne vois pas la Suisse remplacant le Pakistan dans la mediation entre l'Iran et les Etats-Unis.

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Ying Zhang SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2026-06-25 13:48

@Bernard Moret

Your perspective is interesting, because the vast majority of reports and analyses I’ve seen suggest that the most likely and credible mediators between Iran and the United States are primarily Switzerland, Oman, and Qatar, as they have all served as key secret communication channels or official mediators between the two countries over the past decade or so. Although Pakistan attempted to mediate U.S.-Iran relations several years ago, it is not generally considered the most likely mediator due to its domestic political situation. I’m curious, why do you think Pakistan is better positioned than Switzerland to serve as a credible mediator? Thanks!

Odacy de Brito Silva 2026-06-23 07:49

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From a geopolitical perspective, the world is constantly readjusting in line with concrete facts, possibilities and experiences. The confidence in hosting meetings with a focus on peace lies in Geneva’s central role and its humanitarian vocation.

O Mundo do ponto de vista Geopolítico, se reajusta, conforme fatos concretos, possibilidades e experiências. A confiança de sediar encontros com o olhar na Paz está na centralidade de Genebra, na sua vocação humanitária.

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Pucho 2026-06-17 22:11

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I don’t find them particularly trustworthy; I’ve seen that they support the Cuban dictatorship whilst turning a blind eye to the reality their people have been living through for over 60 years

Para mí no es tan confiable, he visto que apoyan a la dictadura cubana haciendo caso omiso a la realidad que vive su pueblo por más de 60 años

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Ying Zhang SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2026-06-23 09:10

@Pucho

Thank you for your comments, Pucho. I understand your concern, but I think Switzerland’s position towards Cuban is more nuanced. The Swiss government has repeatedly criticized Cuba’s human‑rights record in UN forums, supported resolutions calling for greater civil liberties, and funded humanitarian and development programs aimed at improving living conditions rather than endorsing the regime. __Switzerland maintains a policy of neutral mediation, which means engaging with governments it disagrees with in order to facilitate dialogue, not because it supports them.

cesardelucasivorra@hotmail.com 2026-06-16 12:45

The following contribution has been automatically translated from ES.

The fact that Swiss neutrality can help to resolve armed and other conflicts in different regions of the world is an important factor for world peace. Furthermore, the existence of channels of dialogue in other countries – such as Israel and Jordan – aimed at establishing a lasting peace can be viewed positively, bearing in mind ancient anthropological factors such as relations with the Edomites. Perhaps the question that arises is whether the bridges to peace that Switzerland is attempting to build are useful or not. In principle, they may seem useful, but this should not call into question the state’s neutrality and the basic principles of the Swiss Constitution, bearing in mind its democratic values. Therefore, it does indeed appear that the country’s role as a mediator is appropriate, whilst at the same time ensuring that the terms of any peace agreements signed are compatible with national legislation and respect the concept of the Swiss state as a neutral haven, a valuable repository for documents and a financial centre, whilst always upholding the ultimate legal oversight that such negotiations must be subject to. César De Lucas Ivorra. San Juan de Alicante. Spain.

El hecho que la neutralidad suiza pueda ayudar a resolver conflictos armados y de otro tipo en diferentes regiones del mundo, es un aspecto importante para la paz mundial. Por otro lado, el que puedan existir canales de diálogo en otros países como por ejemplo Israel y Jordania, para llegar a establecer una paz duradera puede ser considerado positivo teniendo en cuenta aspectos antediluvianos antropológicos como las relaciones con los pueblos edomitas. Quizá, el interrogante que se nos plantea es si los puentes para la paz que Suiza intenta establecer son útiles o no. En principio, pueden parecer útiles, pero no por ello deben poner en duda la neutralidad del estado y los principios básicos de la Constitución Suiza, teniendo en cuenta sus valores democráticos. Por tanto, sí que parece el papel como mediador del país sea correcto, pero valorando al mismo tiempo que las conclusiones de los acuerdos de paz que se firmen, sean compatibles con la legislación estatal y respetando al mismo tiempo el concepto de estado suizo como lugar neutral, refugio documental, y financiero de gran valor, respetando siempre el control jurídico en última instancia que deben tener este tipo de negociaciones. César De Lucas Ivorra. San Juan de Alicante. España.

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@hagen 2026-06-19 22:37

The following contribution has been automatically translated from DE.

@cesardelucasivorra@hotmail.com

Welcher Frieden?

Welcher Frieden

Y

Ying Zhang SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2026-06-23 09:16

@cesardelucasivorra@hotmail.com

Your comment is incredibly insightfull. It’s clear that you understand the Swiss system and the constitutional logic behind its neutrality very well. That’s exactly why I’d love to hear your view on something I’ve been noticing in recent years: many observers express disappointment that several of the peace bridges Switzerland tries to build seem to fail or lose influence.____Given today’s conflicts, which situations do you think still offer real mediator potential for Switzerland — for example, regional conflicts where neutrality matters, dialogue channels Switzerland could still strengthen, or specific countries where Swiss mediation remains credible

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jepyerly@websud.ch 2026-06-14 08:55

The following contribution has been automatically translated from FR.

Unfortunately, our authorities have been playing with fire in an attempt to please the EU. The result is that our country’s neutrality has taken a serious hit. Our politicians and Geneva are no longer in favour. Clearly, the EU is satisfied that Switzerland is no longer the model mediator that the current troubled world needs. The EU of 27, led with arrogance by Macron and V. der Leyen, is proving increasingly disappointing; the absence of true democracy, the lack of foresight among representatives in Brussels, coupled with ruinous operating costs, are leading to future poverty for our nations.

Malheureusement, nos Autorités, ont joué avec le feu, pour faire plaisir à l'UE. Le résultat, est que la neutralité de notre Pays , en a pris un Sale coup. Nos politiciens et Genève , n'ont plus la cote . De toute évidence, l'UE est satisfaite que la Suisse n'est plus l'exemple de médiateur que le monde tourmenté actuel. L'UE des 27 menée avec arrogance par Macron et V.der Leiyen déçoit de plus en plus ; l'absence de vraie démocratie, le manque de clairvoyance des représentants à Bruxelles , avec des coûts de fonctionnement ruineux conduisent à une future pauvreté de nos États.

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Ying Zhang SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2026-06-23 09:28

@jepyerly@websud.ch

Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us. Your message reflects a viewpoint that is indeed shared by part of the public, especially those who feel that Switzerland’s recent decisions signal a shift away from its traditional posture. From a more neutral perspective, I see these developments as part of a broader tension: Switzerland is trying to balance strict neutrality with the realities of a rapidly changing European political environment. That balancing act naturally creates disagreement about what “true neutrality” should look like today. But I'm wondering if Switzerland, or any single country, or even a small group of states, hopes to act as the kind of "model mediator or go-between that the current troubled world needs" as you described, what qualities would they need to embody? Of course, traits such as credible neutrality, long‑term diplomatic consistency, or broad international trust seem essential, but I would be very interested in hearing which characteristics you consider indispensable. Thank you

C

Cirripedia 2026-06-10 13:57

Yes, I trust Switzerland in this role, a country that honors democracy, free flow of information, social cohesion, a well functioning government.

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Smiss 2026-06-05 13:39

Switzerland has done little to show its so called neutrality recently versus parroting whatever the US and EU desire. Decades upon decades of Israeli atrocities yet barely a word and certainly no frozen bank accounts to those funding israeli atrocities. Russia on the other hand gets accounts frozen immediately upon demand of the EU. The US has committed numerous atrocities as well...again silence and no frozen accounts...in fact Switzerland has handed over money and weapons to both the US and Israel. If I was a foreign leader I wouldn't see much reason to trust the swiss to mediate . While condemning Russia they never seem to bother condemning NATO for lying and continuing its expansionist policies. Never a word against the corruption in ukraine brought by a government put into place by a western backed Coupe. Much like the israel situation where we keep hearing Oct 7th in hopes we ignore the decades upon decades of Israeli atrocities before that.

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Rafiq Tschannen 2026-05-30 04:21

Well, the Swiss neutrality has become a bit 'dented', which affects its role as a neutral place for negotiations. I am referring to Switzerland following US and EU sanctions on Russia and other countries. When you participate in sanctions you are no longer neutral.. I think Putin pointed that out, and he is right in this topic. Anyway, it is worth to keep trying to facilitate any ways to peace, here and there and everywhere.

Giannis Mavris SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2026-06-05 09:59

@Rafiq Tschannen

Switzerland participates in roughly 30 different sanction regimes, some of them for decades. It even sanctions Ukraine. Russia is complaining about the sanctions because they are obviously a problem for them. Read more here: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/war-peace/why-switzerland-stopped-short-of-formally-sanctioning-ukraine/91371701

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Bernard Moret 2026-06-23 10:03

The following contribution has been automatically translated from FR.

@Rafiq Tschannen

I do not believe that participating in sanctions against a country that has suddenly decided to invade and annex a neighbouring country constitutes a breach of neutrality. Switzerland is a signatory to humanitarian agreements which dictate its response.

Je ne pense pas que participer aux sanctions contre un pays qui a brusquement decide d'envahir et annexer un pays voisin constitue une breche de neutralite. La Suisse est signataire d"accords humanitaires qui dictent sa reponse.

ProperD 2026-05-29 16:48

One of and probably the most important quality for a mediator to have is neutrality. Switzerland is no longer neutral and I don't see why they continue to claim that they are. One example of the Swiss lack of neutrality is that they didn't put sanctions on USA for breaking international law which USA has done too many times to count. But they were quick to put sanctions on Russia because they claim that Russia broke international law. ...In addition, Switzerland maintains sanctions on Iran to sustain international security, align with EU foreign policies, and dictate UN resolutions....at least that's why they say. Switzerland is simply following the command of USA and Israel. While Iran continues to be attacked by both countries....Has Switzerland put any sanctions on Israel? Then Switzerland carries out military exercises with NATO...one of the most corrupt and useless institutions on the planet. Switzerland simply sides with the west whether they are right or wrong. So no...I don't trust Swiss mediation today because the country is not willing to take the "higher road" in political and world affairs.

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Ying Zhang SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2026-06-02 09:10

@ProperD

Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I understand the concerns you’ve raised, and you’re right that these are complex issues. Just to clarify: Switzerland’s legal neutrality is not about moral equivalence or blind equidistance. It is a status under international law, defined by non‑participation in armed conflicts and a consistent arms embargo.____Sanctions are political and economic tools. Switzerland's adoption of EU sanctions on Russia followed a clear, public legal assessment that Russia's invasion violated the UN Charter - a consensus view shared by over 140 countries.____ Regarding your other examples: a mediator’s role is not to sanction every party, but to maintain channels of communication. Choosing not to sanction the United States or Israel in specific cases does not imply bias. As for the NATO exercises you mentioned, these are defensive and non‑combat activities and therefore do not breach neutrality law.____I agree with your view that trust must be earned. Effective mediation depends on trust among all parties, even though perfection is impossible.____Here are some articles we’ve published on Swiss neutrality, which, of course, include both critical perspectives and detailed explanations: https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/foreign-affairs/what-does-the-future-hold-for-swiss-neutrality/45810276 https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/neutrality/swiss-neutrality-your-questions-answered/89903438

ProperD 2026-06-04 11:49

@Ying Zhang

Thank you for your insightful reply. Nonetheless, I still hold the view that Switzerland is not a neutral country and is certainly biased when they don't place sanctions on countries that have committed the same crimes they claim that Russia has also committed. Actually, the only country that showed "real" neutrality is China who refused to join in the sanctions on Russia but didn't talk against Ukraine either. India also refused to join in with the sanctions on Russia. Out of 195 countries, only 30 have honored the US sanctions on Russia. So if Switzerland were neutral it certainly had plenty of company NOT to comply with sanctions on Russia or Iran for that matter....In addition, Switzerland didn’t vote to seize US assets on the many occasions the USA has invaded other countries nor Israel's assets....The acting president of Switzerland in 2024 was the country’s first defense minister to attend a meeting of the North Atlantic Council (NATO) in 2023 to encourage "common defense capability’ with the EU and NATO." She also had weapons that were ordered for Switzerland, delivered to Ukraine,” But "Swiss neutrality" supposedly does not allow weapons to be delivered to countries at war....What's more Switzerland revealed its lack of "channels of communication" and bias when the country hosted a "peace summit" for Ukraine without inviting Russia to the table as well. I'm not sure if you are already aware that at one time Ukraine was also a neutral country. For over two decades Ukraine officially declared its intention to remain a non-aligned, neutral state when it gained independence in 1990, a status that was legally codified in its Constitution in1996 and lasted until late 2014 when it was prepped for a proxy war with Russia with plans to join NATO. I write this to emphasize that Switzerland (though I believe that it is still one of the best countries in the west to live) has to stand its ground in order to be viewed as a neutral country or it may result in chaos. Swiss neutrality was generally seen as one of the strongest, if not the strongest, expressions of neutrality in the world. But once a country joins up with the warmongers they're dragged into a system that won't give them rest until they are ruined.

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Ying Zhang SWI SWISSINFO.CH 2026-06-09 09:15

@ProperD

Thank you for providing so much detailed analysis. Your observations on geopolitics are very insightful. ____I would say that the concept of neutrality is often interpreted differently in different contexts (legal, political, moral), which is why this topic has also sparked significant social divisions within Switzerland. Switzerland's policy of neutrality is not static; it is indeed constantly being adjusted in response to evolving geopolitical pressures. The sanctions policy you mentioned, its interactions with NATO, and the arrangements for the 'Peace Summit' are powerful arguments used by many critics to argue that Switzerland is deviating from its traditions.____That's why I believe the discussion we've initiated on this topic is crucial for understanding how Switzerland, and other modern nations, position themselves. I'm delighted to have insightful readers like you participate in the discussion from a broader perspective. Thank you again.

B

Bernard Moret 2026-06-23 10:24

@ProperD

You seem to have an absolutist notion of neutrality.__Assume the year is 1939 and you have clear evidence that Germany is movng its Jewish population into forced labor camps. Will you support sanctions against its government or abstain in the name of neutrality? In that case, you would be amoral, which is quite different from neutral. Neutrality that is not informed and moderated by moral principles amounts to criminal disregard for others.

ProperD 2026-06-28 11:32

@Bernard Moret

Well let's take your example. Assume that the year is 1939 and you have clear evidence that Germany is moving its Jewish population into forced labor camps and another country is doing the exact same thing or even worse. Do you only put sanctions on one country and not the other who is doing the exact same thing or even worse...??? You see how that works...??? Neutrality consists of treating all the same...that's if you're really neutral. Switzerland is not doing that therefore Switzerland is not neutral.

How trustworthy is Switzerland as an international mediator or go-between today?

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As Middle East conflict rages, Swiss tradition of uniting adversaries is changing

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