3.3. A greater focus on the needs of citizens and businesses Foreign policy should put citizens first and promote economic interests to a greater extent than before. The support of citizens and the Swiss business community must become a core element of foreign policy. Services for citizens are an established area of foreign policy, and one that is appreciated by the public. The challenge here is to adapt the services on offer to changing needs and to keep up with rising expectations. Switzerland’s foreign policy has room for improvement when it comes to supporting foreign trade interests. Considerable opportunities for entering into win-win cooperation agreements will open up in this area. However, placing greater emphasis on economic issues should not detract from other FDFA priorities such a peace, security and development. On the contrary – it could lend them new dynamism. The vision Services for Swiss citizens and close cooperation with Swiss businesses are recognised assets of Swiss foreign policy in 2028. Both target groups will receive unbureaucratic help, more and more delivered through digital channels. Foreign policy and trade policy will operate as a homogeneous whole. Market access, legal certainty and protecting the investments of Swiss companies are priority foreign policy commitments. At the same time, the private sector is an active partner in addressing sustainable development and climate change mitigation. Looking forward to 2028, the following three building blocks create a suitable foundation: 3.3.1. Tailored services abroad There are over 760,000 Swiss nationals living abroad, and the trend is rising. Foreign travel is also increasing. Whereas the Swiss made 11.5 million trips abroad in 2012, that number had risen to more than 15.5 million in 2017. Providing support to Swiss nationals residing abroad and travellers in need is one of the basic tasks of foreign policy. Any Swiss citizen requiring help in an emergency situation will receive consular protection. Thus, for example, Swiss representations will advise the relatives of people who have gone missing or been kidnapped. This area of foreign policy will see many changes in the coming years. New technologies will open the way to greater efficiency and better services that are more in touch with citizens’ needs. The result: a more personal form of support, and bundled consular services. A considerable number of consular functions involve standardised work processes. Intelligent machines can reduce the workload of employees and boost service efficiency. Providing a range of digital consular services will create a one-stop shop where customer needs can be addressed quickly and straightforwardly. Using AI-supported solutions would allow Switzerland to deliver a tailored service to its citizens abroad in future – both remotely and locally. Consular activities could be linked more closely with other areas of foreign policy. Digital transformation creates new potential for Switzerland to market its consular activities. Regional communities of Swiss abroad can be addressed more specifically through digital channels. They can be made more aware of Switzerland’s position on European policy issues or other international topics. 2028 Foreign Policy Vision 24