Cassis defends flexible neutrality: Only this way can Switzerland 'adequately respond to new challenges'

Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis on Tuesday defended the government's flexible approach to neutrality, arguing that a rigid, constitutionally enshrined policy would leave the country ill-equipped to handle new global challenges. The government is urging voters to reject a "neutrality initiative" that will be put to a public vote in late September.

“

The world has become more dangerous.

Cassis, speaking at a press conference in Bern, agreed with the initiative's proponents that the world has become more dangerous. However, he countered that Switzerland's current, pragmatic neutrality allows it to "independently safeguard its interests and make its own decisions" without being dictated to by Moscow, Brussels, or Washington, or by a "rigid constitutional article."

“

The Switzerland has flexibly deployed this high general in its history and applied a pragmatic, case-by-case neutrality.

Supporters of the initiative, a coalition including communists and the influential right-wing politician Christoph Blocher, claim that a permanent, armed neutrality enshrined in the constitution would protect Switzerland from potential Russian aggression. They argue that Switzerland's current policy of adopting sanctions against Russia makes it a "party to the war" in President Vladimir Putin's eyes.

“

The more uncertain the world becomes, the more important it is that Switzerland can safeguard its interests independently and make its own decisions. And not Moscow, not Brussels, not Washington, but also not a rigid constitutional article.

Markus Mäder, State Secretary for Security Policy, warned that the initiative would hinder international cooperation, which he deemed essential for Switzerland's defense. He stated that military cooperation would only be possible "if Switzerland is attacked" or "immediately preparing to be attacked," leading to a lack of practice, deterrence, and ultimately weakened defense capabilities. He also cautioned that adopting the initiative would send an international signal of "isolation."

“

Switzerland can only successfully defend itself against threats and dangers through international cooperation.