In the implementation of its foreign policy, Switzerland is guided by the principle of universality. This means maintaining good relations with all states of the world. This does not mean, however, that the foreign policy instruments are deployed in all countries in the same way or that Switzerland has a representation in every country. Rather, Switzerland represents its interests in a modular fashion and according to political priorities. It does so both bilaterally and multilaterally, and as a member of international organisations. In these international organisations Switzerland works closely with other states to find solutions to global challenges. Multilateralism allows Switzerland to achieve leverage through alliances and thereby increase its influence. But in order to remain effective and relevant, the multilateral system needs to be modernised. Switzerland is in favour of adapting the multilateral system to the new conditions and technologies. Over the long term, it aims to remain an attractive host state for international organisations, peace talks and discussions addressing future challenges. Neutrality is an important instrument in securing Switzerland’s independence. The law of neutrality requires a neutral state not to engage in international armed conflicts and to treat all belligerents equally. Switzerland’s policy of neutrality thereby safeguards the effectiveness and credibility of its neutrality. je Ob P e Foreign olicy Strateg of th y2 s e 02 v 0 ct i Geog The number of actors involved in shaping policy has continued to rise in recent years. Conflicts of interest are increasingly frequent, making it difficult to achieve a coherent policy. Apart from governments, other important actors of foreign policy include parliaments, multinational companies, civil society and international organisations. One of the primary objectives of this strategy is to ensure greater coherence across all foreign policy issues and between foreign and domestic policy. This requires a future-oriented understanding of coherence – one that is sought horizontally between government departments, federal offices and Parliament but also vertically at the local, cantonal, national, bilateral, regional, multilateral and global levels. This in turn increases the need for coordination. The Federal Council ensures that the various actors and instruments are coordinated and that Swiss interests and values are represented fully and effectively in relations with other countries. To further increase coherence in the future, greater use will be made of interdepartmental bodies such as the Federal Council’s committee for foreign affairs and European policy and dialogue with the cantons. Here, a strategic approach to foreign policy communication will be crucial. jec Ob tiv 202 0– 23 The 2019 Foreign Policy Report reviewed the last foreign policy strategy. One of the challenges to emerge in implementation was the issue of coherence. raphical level While it is natural for conflicting aims and interests to emerge, collective responses can generally be found. The Federal Constitution and legislative planning form the reference framework for the main issues of coherence. The UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development also provides an international framework for addressing conflicting aims. f the es o Principles gy The Foreign Policy Strategy 2016–19 provided the framework for Swiss foreign policy in the last legislative period. It contained two geographical priorities – the European Union and strategic partnerships – and two thematic focus areas – peace and security, and sustainable development and prosperity. –2 3 tic focus are ema as Th Foreign Policy Strate Coherence g e of th ve s i t c Foreign Policy Strate Kernauftrag re mission Co je Ob y 2 02 0– 23 f the es o Foreign Policy Strate gy 202 0– 23 FDFA tiv Foundations jec Ob 6