Neutrality Of Switzerland: A Brief Introduction
Neutrality Of Switzerland: A Brief Introduction

Summary/Abstract: This paper gives a brief introduction to the neutrality of Switzerland. After defining the Law of Neutrality and a policy of neutrality, we present the “Swiss neutrality”, its functions and its history. We observe then that there are currently very divergent perceptions of the role of neutrality in the security and foreign policies of Switzerland. Those points of view diverge from neutrality as the pillar of sovereignty till neutrality as an instrument for an active foreign policy. The possible Swiss security policy activities are exposed with a focus on the international engagement of members of the Swiss Armed Forces in the framework of neutrality. Since the end of the Cold War, Swiss militaries are involved in peace support operations which do not have a peace enforcement component. We notice that the Swiss neutrality has been adapted slowly to the international context since 1989. A wide accepted reinterpretation of the “Swiss neutrality” and its role is still to be agreed among the Swiss population and politicians. Finally we have a look at the new neutrality of Serbia, whose strategic role is also to be determined.

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