Information for the media
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Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis at ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Conference: global security and bilateral relations at centre of talks
On 10 and 11 July, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis attended the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Malaysia. His participation underlines South East Asia's growing economic importance to Switzerland. Mr Cassis used the platform to discuss economic ties, bilateral relations and global challenges with his counterparts from Malaysia, Vietnam and Singapore. For the first time, he also met the new Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand on the margins of the conference.
Administrative assistance in accordance with FATCA: notification of receipt of FATCA group requests pursuant to Article 12 paragraph 1 FATCA Act
The Federal Tax Administration has published FATCA group requests pursuant to Article 12 paragraph 1 FATCA Act.
Switzerland reaffirms its commitment to reconstruction at the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2025 in Rome
The Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC) has been held since 2022 to coordinate reconstruction efforts in Ukraine. At this year's conference, which took place in Rome from 10 to 11 July, the head of the Swiss delegation, Jacques Gerber, signed an international treaty with Ukraine. This forms the legal basis for increased cooperation with the Swiss private sector in reconstruction. Projects in the areas of health, education and war risk insurance were also approved.
Change in the Executive Board of ETH Zurich and 14 new professors appointed at ETH Zurich and EPFL
At its meeting of 9/10 July 2025, the ETH Board took note of the resignation of Vanessa Wood as Vice President of ETH Zurich. She will leave the Executive Board at the end of December 2025 and will continue to lead her research team. Furthermore, the ETH Board appointed eleven women and three men as professors and awarded the title of Professor of Practice to one individual, upon application of the President of ETH Zurich, Professor Joël Mesot, and the President of EPFL, Professor Anna Fontcuberta i Morral. It also took note of the resignations of two professors and thanked them for their services. In the last 12 months, the ETH Board has made a total of 24 new appointments for women and 26 for men; the proportion of women among these new appointments thus amounts to 48%.
Victims of National Socialism: Call for proposals to design the memorial in Bern
In April 2023, the Federal Council decided to establish a memorial in the centre of Bern for the victims of National Socialism. The Federal Council considers it vital to keep alive the memory of the consequences of National Socialism, as well as the fate of the six million Jews and all other victims of the Nazi regime. On the recommendation of the municipal council of the City of Bern, the Casinoterrasse near the Federal Parliament was selected as the location for the site of remembrance. A call is now being organised to gather proposals for the its creation from multidisciplinary teams in the fields of art, architecture and history.
Prevention bulletin 2025/1 aviation
The Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board (STSB) is publishing the prevention bulletin 2025/1 aviation.
Prevention bulletins contain useful information in accordance with Art. 56 OSITI for the prevention of accidents and serious incidents. They were obtained as part of preliminary investigations into incidents for which an investigation is not opened for reasons of efficiency. The Prevention Bulletins are compiled in chronological order and include those incidents for which a preliminary investigation was completed by the end of the respective quarter. The information does not claim to be complete, is anonymised and is designed to contribute to the safety awareness of the public concerned.
The German versions of the prevention bulletins are the originals and therefore authoritative.
Consumer sentiment higher than a year ago
In June 2025 the consumer sentiment index stood at –32 points. This is 4 points higher than in June 2024. The following sub-indices were higher than in June 2024: past financial situation, financial outlook and moment to make major purchases. The following sub-index is lower than a year ago: economic outlook.
Identifying chemicals of concern in plastics – and pathways towards safer polymers
To curb global plastic pollution and to make plastics safer and more sustainable, countries are currently negotiating a global treaty. A new study published in Nature provides a comprehensive and systematic overview of all chemicals that can be present in plastics, their properties, uses, and hazards. Moreover, the study also provides a scientific approach for identifying chemicals of concern. This allows scientists and manufacturers to develop safer plastics and policy makers to promote a non-toxic circular economy.
Sanctions: Ordinance on Measures concerning Haiti
The UN sanctions committee has amended the list of sanctioned individuals, companies and organizations. The SESAM database has been updated accordingly.
On 4 March 2016 the Federal Council has adopted the Ordinance on the automatic application of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists. Hence, the amendments of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists enter into force in Switzerland without delay.
Issue result for Confederation bonds
The Swiss Confederation issued two bonds by auction on 09.07.2025: 0.50%, maturity 27.05.2030 (reopening) and 0.25%, maturity 23.06.2035 (reopening). The issuance volume (excluding own holdings) amounts to a total of 443.210 million francs.
New STSB preliminary report (aviation) available
A new preliminary report (aviation) is available on the website of the Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board STSB.
Swissmedic authorises vaccine to control bluetongue serotype 3
Bluetongue is a viral disease transmitted by biting insects that affects ruminants and camelids. Bultavo 3 from the marketing authorisation holder Boehringer Ingelheim (Switzerland) GmbH can be used to vaccinate sheep and cattle against serotype 3.
Strengthening economic ties is focus of talks by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis in Nepal and Bhutan
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis visited Nepal and Bhutan during his week-long trip to Asia from 7 to 9 July. The official talks with government representatives centred on bilateral relations and opportunities for deeper economic cooperation.
Switzerland's work at 59th session of the Human Rights Council focused on women's rights and non-discrimination
In a global context where the rule of law is being undermined, Switzerland is working hard to defend human rights. Promoting women's rights, gender equality and the rights of LGBT people were some of the key issues addressed at the 59th session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC). The work of the session, which closed today following three and a half weeks of debates, has been affected by the budget cuts imposed across the UN system.
Swissmedic grants authorisation for a paediatric antimalarial under the Marketing Authorisation for Global Health Products (MAGHP) procedure
Swissmedic has authorised a novel paediatric formulation of an antimalarial medicine: Riamet Baby (Coartem Baby), specifically developed for infants with a bodyweight between 2 kg and 5 kg. This marks a significant step in the global effort to improve access to life-saving treatments for vulnerable populations. It is the third authorisation granted under the MAGHP procedure and underscores the value of international collaboration in addressing urgent public health needs.
X-ray analytics in motion: Dynamic 3D diagnosis for unstable shoulders
Shoulder instabilities are difficult to diagnose as they usually only occur when the shoulder joint is in motion. A time-resolved 3D analysis now makes it possible for the first time to precisely capture these dynamics. Empa researcher Ameet Aiyangar combines X-ray videos with virtual 3D models of the joints to detect these instabilities with millimeter precision.
New Confederation bonds
The Swiss Confederation is offering two bonds on a public tender system on 09.07.2025: 0.50%, maturity 27.05.2030 (reopening) and 0.25%, maturity 23.06.2035 (reopening).
The OAG files an indictment against the alleged leader and a suspected member of the Swiss chapter of a terrorist organisation in Kosovo
The Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland (OAG) filed an indictment against a Kosovar national suspected of having acted as leader (Emir) of the Swiss chapter of a Kosovar terrorist organisation, and of also having been a member of its executive committee in Kosovo. The suspect is accused of having carried out, primarily in the Geneva region, activities related to indoctrination, financing, and the recruitment of new members on behalf of the aforementioned terrorist organisation. These activities are believed to have been carried out with the support of a second suspect. Both suspects are also believed to have disseminated the ideology of the terrorist organisation ‘Islamic state’, including during their regular meetings, as well as independently in the case of the second suspect. Through these acts, the two individuals are suspected of having simultaneously promoted the organisation’s ideology and supported the terrorist group ‘Islamic state’.
Federal Councillor Martin Pfister to make working visit to Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina
The head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS), Federal Councillor Martin Pfister, will visit Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina on 7 and 8 July. He will be accompanied by members of the parliamentary Security Policy Committee and by Philippe Müller, a member of the cantonal government and head of the Department of Cantonal Security in the Canton of Bern. The aim of the working visit is to gain an overview of the security situation and Switzerland's role in peacekeeping operations. In addition to visiting Swiss Armed Forces personnel, Federal Councillor Pfister will hold bilateral talks with defence ministers Ejup Maqedonci (Kosovo) and Zukan Helez (Bosnia and Herzegovina) as well as with Christian Schmidt, High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Mr Pfister will be accompanied by Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy.
Switzerland reopens its embassy in Iran – ambassador returns to Tehran
As of today, 6 July 2025, the Swiss embassy in Tehran is open again after having temporarily closed on 20 June due to the unstable situation in Iran. Ambassador Nadine Olivieri Lozano and a small team returned to Tehran yesterday overland via Azerbaijan. The embassy will gradually resume operations.
Ignazio Cassis in Asia for ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting and bilateral talks
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, the head of the FDFA, will be travelling to Asia from 7 to 13 July 2025. He will attend the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur. His participation highlights the growing economic and geopolitical importance of the South East Asian states. Official working visits to Nepal, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam and Singapore are also planned around the conference.
Report on the ‘Switzerland's most important digital data’ workshops
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is currently working on a framework for implementing Motion 23.3002 ‘Greater security for Switzerland's most important digital data’. The motion calls for federal government, the cantons, the communes and operators of critical infrastructures to enhance the security of their most important digital data. To implement the motion, the NCSC held practical workshops with critical infrastructure operators. The findings of these workshops have now been published in a report, which will serve as a basis for further action.
GBAD MR: National Armaments Director signs programme agreement as part of European Sky Shield Initiative with the German Federal Ministry of Defence
The National Armaments Director, Urs Loher, and the German National Armaments Director, Vice Admiral Carsten Stawitzki, have signed the programme agreement as part of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI) for the cooperative procurement of IRIS-T SLM systems of medium-range ground-based air defence (GBAD MR) from the German manufacturer Diehl Defence GmbH & Co. KG. The programme agreement which the Federal Council approved on 20 June 2025 is a requirement for a procurement contract on the GBAD MR systems. Switzerland can benefit from economies of scale and an improved interoperability of the systems through this joint procurement.
Consumer prices increased by 0.2% in June
The consumer price index (CPI) increased by 0.2% in June 2025 compared with the previous month, reaching 107.8 points (December 2020 = 100). Inflation was +0.1% compared with the same month of the previous year. These are the results of the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).
Presentation of credentials
Ambassadors newly accredited to Switzerland present their credentials
“Switzerland's Security 2025”: Global confrontation has direct effects on Switzerland
The security situation around Switzerland is deteriorating year by year. A global confrontation is emerging, with the USA on one side and China and Russia on the other. This has direct implications for Switzerland: the threat of espionage is high and proliferation activities are increasing. The terrorist threat remains elevated. Particularly concerning is the growing online radicalization of youth. In its new situation report “Switzerland's Security 2025,” the Federal Intelligence Service (FIS) assesses the threat landscape facing the country.
Rare flying squirrel species inspires robotics: Safely navigating treetops thanks to a scaly tail
African scaly-tailed squirrels use their scaled tails to safely move across the smooth bark of trees in their native rainforest habitats. Researchers from Empa, the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, and the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems have for the first time investigated the physics of these thorn-covered scales located on the underside of the squirrel tails through mathematical and physical models. Their findings could eventually enable agile and energy-efficient bionic robots and drones.
FDFA State Secretary Alexandre Fasel in Germany for political consultations
Alexandre Fasel, the state secretary of the FDFA, was in Berlin on 1 July 2025 to hold political consultations with his German counterpart, the state secretary of the Federal Foreign Office, Géza Andreas von Geyr. Talks focused on current geopolitical developments, bilateral issues and the opening of the consultation procedure in Switzerland on the agreements in the new Swiss-EU package. Mr Fasel also met with the state secretary of Germany's Federal Chancellery, Jörg Semmler.
Federal President Keller-Sutter and French President Macron discuss European and geopolitical issues
On Tuesday, 1 July, Federal President Karin Keller-Sutter was received by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace. The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on bilateral relations, cooperation in Europe, European competitiveness and geopolitical challenges.
Swiss chairmanship of Eureka
From today, Switzerland will be taking over the chairmanship of the intergovernmental Eureka initiative for one year. With its 45 member countries, Eureka is the world’s largest network for innovation.
Biodiversity in the Agricultural Landscape: Lessons from Ten Years of Monitoring
Agroscope has monitored the biodiversity of the Swiss agricultural landscape since 2015. Taken as a whole, the situation has not changed over this period. Individual improvements can be observed in the ecological focus areas in particular.
IMF country review: Resilient and innovative Swiss economy in an uncertain global environment
In its concluding statement for the annual country review, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) commends the resilience of the Swiss economy. The IMF identifies challenges for the authorities mainly in the areas of government expenditure and the strengthening of financial stability.
Newsletter 473 (01.07.2025)
You could be interested by new pages which have been published on the OFCOM website between 15.06.2025 and 30.06.2025.
2024/2025 Annual Report: Stronger enforcement of data protection rules and record number of freedom of information requests
The Office of the FDPIC has significantly increased resources to combat data protection violations and has clarified his approach to the new Data Protection Act by concluding the first proceedings. Although mediation settlement rates are very high, the surge in applications for access and requests for mediation under the Freedom of Information Act is causing processing backlogs.
New STSB final report (aviation) available
A new final report (aviation) is available on the website of the Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board STSB.
Switzerland attends 4th International Conference on Financing for Development
Switzerland will be participating in the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) in Seville, Spain, from 30 June to 3 July 2025. Organised under the auspices of the United Nations, this global event aims to address financing challenges in order to help achieve the 2030 Agenda’s Sustainable Development Goals. The conference will cover a wide range of issues relating to development policy, environmental, economic and social sustainability, and macroeconomics. The Swiss delegation is being led by Patricia Danzi, director general of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).
Award-winning concrete to save the climate : The “Oscar” for engineering achievements goes to … Empa!
Empa is one of the winners of the Building Award 2025. A team from Empa's Concrete and Asphalt lab was recognized for its CO₂-storing concrete – a promising approach to significantly curbing emissions in the construction industry. The award ceremony took place at the KKL Lucerne in late June.
Latest special coin to be issued: 100 years 100-franc Vreneli
Presented for the first time by Swissmint at the World Money Fair, the latest special coin 100 years 100-franc Vreneli will go on sale on 1 July 2025.
Course listings (ICTax)
The Federal Tax Administration has updated the course listings and bonus shares 2024 and 2025.
Cyberattack on Radix: Federal Administration data also affected
The foundation Radix has been targeted by a ransomware attack, during which data was stolen and encrypted. Radix’s customers include various federal offices. The data has been published on the dark web and will now be analysed by the relevant offices.
Air2030: Current challenges and future steps
Over recent months, a number of challenges have arisen in the Air2030 programme to renew funding for air space protection. The Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) today updated the Federal Council on the current status of the procurement process for the new fighter aircraft F-35A. The Federal Council is supporting the DDPS in the next stages of the procurement procedure and in the diplomatic talks on the fixed price. It still considers this price to be valid. The Federal Council remains committed to procuring the F-35A.
Secretary of State Martina Hirayama on science and economic mission to Australia and New Zealand
On behalf of Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, Head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER), Martina Hirayama, State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) will travel to Sydney and Melbourne (Australia) and Auckland (New Zealand) from 30 June to 8 July. The aim of the trip is to reinforce and broaden bilateral ties in the domains of education, research, innovation and economic affairs. She will be accompanied by a high-ranking delegation from the scientific and business community.
Idea competition for recovering ammunition from Swiss lakes: Evaluation is ongoing
In August 2024, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse launched an idea competition for the environmentally-friendly and safe recovery of ammunition from Swiss lakes. The announcement of the results, scheduled for the end of May 2025, has been postponed. Due to the complexity of the ideas, the evaluation is taking more time than planned.
Karin Keller-Sutter to meet Emmanuel Macron in Paris
The President of the Swiss Confederation, Karin Keller-Sutter, is to meet French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Tuesday, 1 July. The geopolitical situation and security issues will be at the centre of their discussions. Also on the agenda are bilateral relations between Switzerland and France, European policy and competitiveness.
National Armaments Director in talks with Elbit about ongoing procurement projects
National Armaments Director Urs Loher met representatives from Elbit Systems Ltd for working discussions on the reconnaissance drone system 15 (ADS 15) and the Armed Forces Telecommunication (TK A) in Cyprus.
New STSB summary report (aviation) available
A new summary report (aviation) is available on the website of the Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board STSB.
Femicides: Confederation, cantons and communes announce urgent measures
In the first half of 2025, 18 women and girls were killed in Switzerland. Faced with this alarming situation, the committee responsible for the implementation of the Istanbul Convention on combating violence against women (Confederation, cantons and communes), coordinated by the Federal Office for Gender Equality (FOGE), calls for a strong and joint political action. It decided to introduce three emergency measures.
Solar energy as a basic service for the public: Solar electricity for all
How can we accelerate the energy transition in a socially responsible way? Empa researchers propose a publicly funded basic service in solar energy that would increase energy autonomy, create social justice and promote further investment in renewable energies. This requires – among other things – a third of all roofs in Switzerland and a total investment every 30 years that is roughly equivalent to the average gross monthly salary per Swiss citizen.
Almost CHF 26 billion invested in R&D in Switzerland in 2023
Switzerland invested CHF 25.9 billion in R&D in 2023, an average annual increase of 3% over 2021, the year of the previous survey. Research and development activities were mainly undertaken by business enterprises (69%) and higher education institutions (28%). Nearly 150 000 people were employed to carry out this work. These are the main results of the Federal Statistical Office’s (FSO) Statistics on Research and Development in Switzerland.
New edition of the brochure “The Swiss Tax System”
A new edition of the publication “The Swiss Tax System” has been compiled. This brochure is available in four languages (e, d, f, i) and gives an overview of the taxes levied by the Confederation, the cantons and communes. It also goes into detail concerning cantonal particularities.
FDFA State Secretary Alexandre Fasel holds political consultations in France
FDFA State Secretary Alexandre Fasel was in Paris on 25 June 2025 for political consultations. In addition to bilateral topics and cross-border issues, the talks at France's Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs centred on current geopolitical developments and the opening of the consultation procedure in Switzerland on the agreements in the new Swiss–EU package to stabilise and develop relations.
Earthquake simulation exercise: 12 countries train in Kriens to save lives
The earthquakes in Myanmar in April 2025 and in Turkey in February 2023 claimed countless lives. Internationally deployable rescue teams provide vital assistance in such emergencies, and regular training is key to ensuring the efficiency of their operations. To that end Switzerland is conducting the international earthquake simulation exercise ‘SIMEX25’ in Kriens (canton of Lucerne) from 23 to 27 June. Rescue teams from 12 countries are taking part.
SECO: Ordinance instituting measures in relation to the situation in Guatemala
On 24 June 2025 the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER has amended the annex of the Ordinance instituting measures in relation to the situation in Guatemala. The entries for five individuals have been modified and three individuals and one entity has been added to the annex. The measures come into force on 26 June 2025.
Rene W. Keller steps down as member of the FINMA Board of Directors
At its meeting on 25 June 2025, the Federal Council took note of the resignation of Rene W. Keller from the Board of Directors of the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA, and thanked him for his service.
The Federal Council renews basic licences for online voting
At its meeting on 25 June, the Federal Council decided to renew the basic licences of the Cantons of Basel Stadt, St Gallen, Graubünden and Thurgau for online voting trials in federal votes (e-voting). The basic licences are valid for a limited section of the electorate up to and including the vote on 6 June 2027. The Federal Chancellery will also issue authorisations for the vote on 28 September this year.
Bilateral agreement with Ukraine
At its meeting on 25 June, the Federal Council approved the draft of a bilateral cooperation agreement between Switzerland and Ukraine on reconstruction of the country. The draft agreement would establish the legal basis for closer involvement of the Swiss private sector in Ukraine's reconstruction process. This agreement will be signed at the 2025 Ukraine Recovery Conference to be held in Rome. Once signed, the Federal Council will initiate a consultation procedure and submit a corresponding dispatch to the Swiss parliament for ratification.
Switzerland to host a global summit on artificial intelligence in 2027
On 25 June 2025, the Federal Council expressed its intention to host an artificial intelligence (AI) summit in Geneva in 2027.
Federal Council discusses the status of discussions on US tariffs
During the meeting on 25 June 2025, Federal President Karin Keller-Sutter and Vice President Guy Parmelin informed the Federal Council about the status of discussions with the United States on the definitive removal of additional tariffs announced by the United States. The Federal Department of Finance (FDF) and the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER) were instructed to continue discussions with the United States, with the aim of achieving the swift conclusion of a non-binding memorandum of understanding.
Shortcomings in accommodation provision for victims of violence
Despite an increase in the number of places in emergency accommodation and shelters for victims of violence in Switzerland, the current situation is not sufficient to meet the growing demand for support. At its meeting on 25 June, the Federal Council adopted a report expressing concern about this situation. It encourages the efforts announced by the cantons to provide sufficient accommodation in the various regions and adapted to the specific needs of different population groups.
Federal Council decides on next steps with regard to companies' climate disclosures
At its meeting on 25 June 2025, the Federal Council decided to pause the revision of the ordinance on climate disclosures for companies. While the revision was broadly welcomed during the consultation phase, on 21 March 2025 the Federal Council requested that possible variants for a pragmatic amendment of the provisions on sustainability reporting be drawn up. For this reason, implementation of the ordinance on climate disclosures for companies is to be paused until there is clarity about these amendments, and about regulatory developments in the European Union.
Security and defence partnership: Federal Council to seek exploratory talks with the EU
At its meeting on 25 June 2025, the Federal Council decided to enter into exploratory talks with the EU with a view to concluding a security and defence partnership. These partnerships provide the EU with a framework for enhancing cooperation with third countries in this field. A security and defence partnership takes the form of non-legally-binding declaration of intent and can be designed individually. A partnership of this kind is a prerequisite for any joint procurements in the defence sector. It is compatible with neutrality and helps to strengthen Switzerland's defence capabilities.
Free trade agreement with Thailand: Federal Council submits dispatch to Swiss Parliament
On 25 June, the Federal Council adopted its dispatch on the free trade agreement signed by EFTA and Thailand. This agreement will enhance competitiveness and brings greater legal certainty for Swiss companies on the Thai market.
General Assembly of the Swiss Employers' Association
Address by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) – Check against delivery
Secretary of State Martina Hirayama on scientific mission to South Korea
From 22 to 25 June, State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation Martina Hirayama led a scientific delegation to Seoul. The aim of the trip was to strengthen Switzerland's cooperation with South Korea in research and innovation. The agenda included a meeting with Chang Yune Lee, Vice Minister for Science and ICT, as well as visits to research institutions, universities, companies and start-ups. The thematic focus was on quantum science, artificial intelligence (AI), high-performance computing and life sciences. Ms Hirayama was accompanied on her trip to South Korea by a high-ranking Swiss science delegation.
Administrative assistance in accordance with FATCA: notification of receipt of FATCA group requests pursuant to Article 12 paragraph 1 FATCA Act
The Federal Tax Administration has published FATCA group requests pursuant to Article 12 paragraph 1 FATCA Act.
Switzerland and EU regulate cooperation during ratification phase of package
On 24 June 2025, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis and EU Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič will sign a joint declaration in Brussels. It sets out arrangements for cooperation between Switzerland and the EU from the end of 2024 until the entry into force of the Swiss–EU package. At its meeting on 13 June 2025, the Federal Council approved the agreements, protocols and statements for the new package to stabilise and further develop Switzerland's bilateral approach with the EU and opened the domestic consultation process.
Empa-TCS study: Electric cars stay atop in noise duel at traffic lights
Empa and the Touring Club Switzerland (TCS) have, for the first time, conducted a joint research project. The study set out to investigate how the noise levels of electric cars and cars with combustion engines differ. While hardly any differences can be detected at constant speed, e-cars are significantly quieter when accelerating.
EFTA Ministerial Conference in Norway: free trade policy outlook in focus
On 23 June, Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin attended the Ministerial Conference of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) in Norway. In addition to signature of the free trade agreement with Malaysia, a key item on the agenda was the free trade policy outlook for EFTA member states within the current trade policy environment.
Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin signs free trade agreement with Malaysia
On 23 June, on the sidelines of the EFTA Ministerial Conference in Tromsø, Norway, a free trade agreement was signed by Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin and representatives of fellow EFTA countries Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway with the Malaysian Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Mr Tengku Zafrul Aziz.
Tourism spending in Switzerland and abroad continued to grow in 2024
In 2024, tourism expenditure both in Switzerland and abroad continued to grow. It grew the most among Swiss residents travelling abroad, however. Swiss residents travelling abroad spent CHF 18.9 billion, an increase of 7.8% over 2023. In comparison, revenue from foreign visitors to Switzerland rose by 2.2% to CHF 19.6 billion. These developments negatively affected the tourism balance. While remaining positive at CHF 720 million, the balance was lower than in 2023 according to initial estimates from the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).
Religious belief and practice continue to wane
Switzerland is seeing a steady decrease in religious affiliation. The share of the population that practises a religion has also continued to fall. In particular, attendance of religious events and church services has decreased significantly compared with ten years ago. Fewer people believe in God, even among those with a religious affiliation. However, religion and spirituality continue to play a role for most people in times of difficulty or sickness. These are the preliminary results of the Survey on Language, Religion and Culture of the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).
AI paves the way towards green cement
The cement industry produces around eight percent of global CO₂ emissions – more than the entire aviation sector worldwide. Researchers at the Paul Scherrer Institute PSI have developed an AI-based model that helps to accelerate the discovery of new cement formulations that could yield the same material quality with a better carbon footprint.
Syria – lifting of economic sanctions
On 20 June, the Federal Council decided to lift economic sanctions against Syria. Switzerland is thereby aligning itself with the EU's decision of 27 May. The decision will take effect at 6pm on the same day.
FDFA temporarily closing embassy in Iran
In view of the intensity of military operations in Iran and the highly unstable situation on the ground, the FDFA has decided to temporarily close the Swiss embassy in Tehran. All expatriate staff have now left Iran and are safe. They will return to Tehran as soon as the situation allows. Switzerland is continuing to fulfil its protecting power mandate for the US in Iran through its good offices in agreement with both countries. Switzerland calls for an urgent return to dialogue with a view to de-escalation.
Federal Council approves armaments policy strategy
The deteriorating security situation calls for a rethink of Switzerland's armaments policy. At its meeting on 20 June 2025, the Federal Council therefore approved its first armaments policy strategy, which aims to maintain the remaining defence-critical industrial base in Switzerland and strengthen the broader technology and industrial base relevant to national security. In addition, research, development and innovation for the further development of the Swiss Armed Forces are to be expanded and Switzerland's international armaments cooperation intensified.
The Federal Council is investing a quarter of a billion Swiss francs to strengthen International Geneva
At its meeting on 20 June 2025, the Federal Council allocated CHF 269 million to International Geneva. It approved an urgent package of measures and a new dispatch on Switzerland as a host state for the period 2026–29. It is thus reaffirming the central role of International Geneva in Swiss foreign policy and its unique place in global governance. The measures are a response to the financial difficulties faced by international organisations and the increasing competition between states to host them. For comparison, the FDFA's contribution to International Geneva over the last four years amounted to almost CHF 2 billion.
Horizon package: Federal Council releases further funds for direct funding for 2021–2024
Due to Switzerland's non-association to the Horizon package (Horizon Europe, Euratom programme, Digital Europe Programme, ITER), the Federal Council adopted a series of transitional measures in the period 2021–2024. A large number of project proposals and corresponding requests are expected for this direct funding of researchers and innovators in Switzerland. On 20 June 2025, the Federal Council decided to allocate an additional CHF 75 million for this purpose, subject to budgetary approval by the Swiss Parliament. These additional funds do not exceed the overall budget of CHF 5.4 billion approved by parliament for the Horizon package.
New Swiss ambassadors
Personnel changes and the conferment of ambassadorial titles will take place in 2025 at several Swiss representations and at the head office of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) as part of the FDFA's periodic transfer rotation and on the basis of appointments made by the Federal Council.
Modernisation of emergency call access
In future, people with hearing impairments will be able to contact the emergency services (police, fire service and medical emergency number) in writing using the text function on their smartphones. The bill also proposes recording the short number 142 for victim support in an ordinance. This creates the necessary clarity for implementation. The Federal Council put a corresponding revision of the relevant leigislation out for consultation on 20 June.
Federal Council adopts new Asia G20 Strategy
At its meeting on 20 June 2025, the Federal Council adopted its first Asia G20 Strategy, which reflects Switzerland's wide-ranging interests in the five Asian G20 member states: China, India, Indonesia, Japan and South Korea. The Asia G20 Strategy defines objectives and measures for the 2025–28 period, building on the South East Asia Strategy 2023–26 and China Strategy 2021–24.
Federal Council sets parameters for the further development of Beyond Gravity
Parliament has decided not to pursue the originally planned privatisation of the space company Beyond Gravity. At its meeting on 20 June 2025, the Federal Council drew up an action plan to enable the company to develop further under these new conditions. The Federal Council will now review the strategic objectives without delay, and create a statutory basis for holding a financial interest in the company accordingly. Ownership control will pass from the Federal Department of Finance (FDF) to the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS).
Federal Council approves the amendments to the International Health Regulations
At its meeting on 20 June 2025, the Federal Council decided to approve the amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005). In reaching this decision, it took account of the results of the public consultation and of the consultation of the parliamentary committees responsible, taking note of the relevant report. The IHR are designed to promote international collaboration to control any events which pose a threat to public health.
e-ID: Federal Council opens consultation on ordinance
The new official electronic identification (e-ID) will enable users to engage with authorities and companies in a secure, user-friendly and efficient digital environment – provided voters approve its introduction in a referendum on 28 September. On 20 June the Federal Council opened the consultation process on an ordinance regulating the details of the e-ID. The consultation period will last until 15 October.
Energy use slightly higher in 2024
In 2024 Switzerland's final energy consumption increased by 1% year-on-year to 776,220 tera-joules (TJ). The main reasons for this were the colder weather compared to the previous year and the increase in aviation fuel sales.
Decline in births and marriages continues in 2024
In 2024, the number of live births fell for the third year running. The number of marriages also fell, for the second year in a row. The number of deaths remained stable overall, although trends varied depending on sex and age group. There was an increase in the number of divorces. These are some of the final annual results of the 2024 Vital Statistics from the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).
1.5% decrease in supplementary accommodation in 2024
Supplementary accommodation recorded 17.3 million overnight stays in 2024. In comparison with the preceding year, this represents a decrease of 1.5%. Demand from foreign visitors increased by 3.7% to 5.8 million. In contrast, the number of overnight stays by domestic guests fell to 11.5 million (–3.9%). These are some of the definitive findings from the Supplementary Accommodation Statistics of the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).
Construction prices rose by 0.6% in April 2025
The Construction Price Index recorded a rise of 0.6% between October 2024 and April 2025, reaching 115.8 points (October 2020 = 100). This result reflects an increase in building and civil engineering prices. Year on year, construction prices rose by 0.7%. These are some of the findings from the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).
Perovskite image sensors: Better images for humans and computers
Taking better photos with less light: That is the promise of perovskite-based image sensors. The innovative semiconductor material enables better color reproduction and fewer image artefacts. Moreover, perovskite sensors are particularly suitable for machine vision. Researchers at Empa and ETH Zurich have developed the technology from scratch. Their latest sensor prototypes show great potential.
New STSB preliminary report (aviation) available
A new preliminary report (aviation) is available on the website of the Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board STSB.
Diplomatic corps excursion to Lucerne and Entlebuch
At the invitation of President Karin Keller-Sutter, the diplomatic corps visited the canton of Lucerne on Wednesday 18 June for its annual excursion. The programme included Lucerne's KKL culture and convention centre and the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Entlebuch.
Sanctions: Ordinance on Measures against persons, groups, businesses and organisations associated with ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida
The UN sanctions committee has amended the list of sanctioned individuals, companies and organizations. The SESAM database has been updated accordingly.
On 4 March 2016 the Federal Council has adopted the Ordinance on the automatic application of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists. Hence, the amendments of the UN Security Council’s sanctions lists enter into force in Switzerland without delay.
armasuisse presents modern technologies for battlefield reconnaissance and countermeasures in Thun
The “Scout 25” technical symposium was held at the Military Training Area in Thun on 18 June 2025. Here, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse came together with the Swiss Armed Forces to present modern technologies for battlefield reconnaissance and countermeasures. The event also gave those in attendance the chance to experience the technological possibilities being developed by industry and academia within the framework of the Vision 2030+ programme of the Swiss Armed Forces in a wide range of presentations.
Presentation of credentials
Ambassadors newly accredited to Switzerland present their credentials
Federal Councillor Albert Rösti signs carbon storage agreement with Norway
During his working visit to Norway on 16 and 17 June, Federal Councillor Albert Rösti signed an agreement on carbon storage with Norwegian Minister of Energy Terje Aasland. The agreement will allow Swiss CO2 to be stored in Norway and also enable both countries to trade negative emissions in a state-recognised framework. This represents a pioneering global agreement under the Paris Agreement.
Prestigious research grant for photonic networks
PSI researcher Kirsten Moselund has been selected by the European Research Council ERC to receive funding for her project NEON. Moselund and her group will use the research grant of around 3.3 million Swiss francs to investigate neuromorphic networks for machine learning applications using laser light instead of conventional electronics.
Florian Schütz to attend WEF Roundtable in Paris
The Director of the National Cyber Security Centre, Florian Schütz, will attend the international World Economic Forum Roundtable in Paris on 17 and 18 June. Under the slogan ‘Rethinking Cyber Resilience in an Era of Complexity’, international experts from politics, business and administration will discuss key issues, current initiatives and joint approaches to improving global cyber resilience in an increasingly complex digital world.
Multispectral camouflage system project: armasuisse tests new camouflage and subterfuge systems for the Armed Forces
From July to September 2025, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse will test the camouflage and subterfuge systems of potential suppliers as part of the multispectral camouflage system project (MSTS) at the Thun and Bure Military Training Areas. Due to the advances made in the development of reconnaissance technologies, it is necessary to procure improved means of camouflage and subterfuge that meet the latest requirements in order to protect deployed members of the Swiss Armed Forces from injury or death and the systems and resources in use from damage. The contract is expected to be awarded at the end of 2025.
Banque Pictet et Cie SA and one of its former relationship managers convicted by summary penalty order
The Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland has issued a summary penalty order against a former relationship manager at Banque Pictet et Cie SA (Pictet Bank), sentencing him to a six-month suspended custodial sentence for acts of aggravated money laundering. Pictet Bank was sentenced to a fine of CHF 2 million for failing to take all reasonable and necessary measures to prevent these acts from being committed. The criminal investigation established that between June 2010 and May 2013, funds totaling more than USD 4.1 million originating from corrupt payments were transferred from the account of a Brazilian public official at Pictet Bank with the aim of concealing their criminal origin.
Renewable gas from hydrogen and CO₂ - New sorption-enhanced methanation plant at Empa
On June 16, Empa inaugurated its novel methanation plant. The move-MEGA research project is the first to demonstrate so-called sorption-enhanced methanation at pilot scale – a technology developed at Empa that makes the power-to-gas process more flexible and robust. The produced synthetic methane can serve as a renewable energy carrier, replacing fossil natural gas. In combination with methane pyrolysis, it is also possible to produce CO₂-negative hydrogen from it.
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis meets Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Đurić
Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, the head of the FDFA, today received the Serbian foreign minister, Marko Đurić, in Bern for an official working visit. Talks focused on bilateral relations, developments in the Western Balkans, the situation in the Middle East, the war against Ukraine and Switzerland's OSCE chairpersonship next year.