… Swiss foreign and domestic policy
are closely intertwined
In Switzerland, perhaps more than in other parts of the
world, citizens trust their country’s institutions. But there
is a sense of unease among Swiss people, too. Decisions
taken and rules laid down by international bodies now
have a greater impact on Swiss legislation than in the past.
It is essential to anchor Swiss foreign policy more firmly
within domestic policy, so that there is nothing “foreign”
about it as far as the Swiss people are concerned.
Beyond the current culture of dialogue, we need a
Whole-of-Switzerland approach in foreign policy involving all national actors. In 2028, the Federal Council, parliament, cantons, the scientific community and
think tanks, international Geneva, the private sector,
NGOs and the wider population all have their roles
and contributions to make in shaping or implementing
foreign policy. Such an approach strengthens domestic
confidence in foreign policy and allows the government
to make optimum use of Switzerland’s broad – and
widely dispersed – expertise in international matters.
How Switzerland is perceived abroad influences its
options for action. All available channels should be
used to strengthen the image of our country and disseminate factual information. Such information is also
indispensable to enable citizens to exercise their rights
in the age of digitisation.
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