News
Swiss OSCE chairpersonship presents roadmap for the prevention and eradication of torture
In its role as chair of the OSCE for 2026, Switzerland today is presenting a roadmap at the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference, setting out how torture can be prevented more effectively, how ill-treatment can be consistently prosecuted, and how victims can be better protected.
A new approach to treating chronic wounds: Patch brings light to wound care
Chronic wounds place a burden on both patients and the healthcare system. Researchers at Empa are therefore working on an innovative material that releases active ingredients when exposed to visible light. As a component of a wound patch, this technology could improve wound treatment and pave the way for a new generation of smart wound therapies.
Switzerland and India strengthen ties in a range of policy areas during presidential visit
On Monday 5 October, President Guy Parmelin met India’s President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other members of the Indian government in New Delhi. Discussions held with Mr Modi focused on economic relations and cooperation in the fields of education and research. Switzerland and India also concluded two agreements, one on migration and one on training exchanges for young professionals.
OSCE press release on the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference
The conference provides a platform for participating States, OSCE institutions and structures, national human rights institutions and civil society to take stock of the implementation of OSCE human dimension commitments and discuss developments affecting democracy, human rights and the rule of law across the OSCE region. The OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Ignazio Cassis (via video message), the OSCE Secretary-General, Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, and the FDFA State Secretary Alexandre Fasel also took part in the conference.
Torture prevention has long been a priority of Switzerland
Opening remarks by FDFA State Secretary Alexandre Fasel at the OSCE Warsaw Human Dimension Conference. The speech was given in English. Check against delivery.
Course listings (ICTax)
The Federal Tax Administration has updated the course listings and bonus shares 2024, 2025 and 2026.
State Secretary Alexandre Fasel meets Turkish deputy foreign minister in Bern
The meeting took place today as part of annual political consultations between Switzerland and Turkey. Discussions focused on bilateral relations and the challenges faced by the OSCE. They also covered a variety of regional and international issues.
National Armaments Director holds work discussions with the French Directorate General of Armament (DGA) in Bern
National Armaments Director Urs Loher received representatives from the French Directorate General of Armament (DGA) from 1 to 2 October 2026 for bilateral work discussions. The discussions focused on current defence policy developments as well as bilateral cooperation.
Ukraine: Federal Council approves additional Swiss private-sector projects
On 2 October, the Federal Council decided to fund eight projects by Swiss companies to support reconstruction in Ukraine. The projects were selected through a competitive selection process.
New ambassadors and changes at head office
Ambassadorial titles have been awarded and the following personnel changes have been decided on for 2026 and 2027 in the external network as well as at FDFA head office and the Federal Chancellery. This comes as part of the FDFA's periodic transfer rotation and is based on appointments made by the Federal Council.
Federal Council supports the continuation of international monetary assistance
During its meeting on 2 October 2026, the Federal Council adopted the dispatch on the continuation of international monetary assistance. Switzerland should continue to be able to provide international monetary assistance of up to a total of CHF 10 billion under the Monetary Assistance Act. The Federal Council also decided that, within the International Monetary Fund (IMF), funds may be transferred to reduce interest rates on loans to low-income countries.
FDF and SNB enter into new profit distribution agreement. Agreement covers financial years 2026 to 2030
The Federal Department of Finance (FDF) and the Swiss National Bank have signed an agreement on the SNB’s profit distributions for the years 2026 to 2030. The modalities remain unchanged. Provided that the SNB’s financial situation permits, an amount of up to CHF 6 billion per annum will be distributed to the Confederation and the cantons.
