powers conferred on foreign policy by law. In other words, foreign policy is also foreign economic policy. The Federal Constitution thus specifies the key values of foreign policy while leaving considerable scope as to how that policy is defined. Foreign policy may be developed further in line with international requirements and domestic preferences. A broad discussion could reveal how Switzerland’s interests manifest themselves in this context: the aim is to give specific form to security, prosperity and independence as the country’s core interests – while including the cross-cutting areas of international order and sustainability. Security becoming more important Security is becoming increasingly important in the context of foreign policy. It is in Switzerland’s interest that states – and particularly the major powers – resolve conflicts peacefully. Peace means more security and prosperity. An international order that puts law before power is just as important. It is in Switzerland’s interest to defend and further develop the achievements of this order, which include strong security organisations such as the UN and the OSCE, respect for the rule of law and international law, promoting democracy, and a functioning arms control system. All states should have access to the new technologies as a tool for peace on the basis of common standards. An open, free and stable cyberspace is equally in Switzerland’s interest. Democracy and the rule of law must be protected against espionage and be able to withstand influence and disinformation. Lastly, Switzerland helps safeguard the security of its citizens by means of consular protection. Geographically, the stability of Europe around it is key to Switzerland’s security. In recent decades, Switzerland has benefited from the stabilising effect of NATO and European unity. However, social and political changes in many states indicate that this stability can no longer be taken for granted. Europe’s neighbours to the south and east take high priority too: Africa, the Middle East, the Western Balkans and the Eastern European countries between Russia and the EU are priority regions for Switzerland’s contributions to stabilisation. The aim is to create development prospects locally, reduce the pressure of migration to Europe and avoid the threat of terrorism and organised crime. In addition, the inclusive pan-European security order should be strengthened. Switzerland can help achieve this by building confidence and trust in relations between Russia and the West, and defending the OSCE principles: it can also work to bolster prospects and stability in the countries situated between the EU and Russia. Hotspots in the common neighbourhood of EU/NATO and Russia BELARUS UKRAINE MOLDOVA Transnistria Eastern Ukraine Crimea EU and/or NATO Russia Common neighbourhood hotspots Abkhazia GEORGIA South Ossetia AZERBAIJAN ARMENIA Nagorno-Karabakh Source: FDFA 2028 Foreign Policy Vision 14