Turkmenistan, Austria, Serbia, Malta and many other countries are neutral like Switzerland. Swiss neutrality was enshrined in international law at the Congress of Vienna in 1815.
The principle of “sitting quietly” had proven itself in Switzerland since the time of Brother Niklaus von Flüe, who said: “Do not meddle in foreign affairs”. When the Swiss Confederation almost fell apart at the seams in the 15th century, he brokered the so-called Stanser Verkommnis with his message of peace. The Confederates continued to cultivate this successful domestic policy. In terms of foreign policy, this tradition has applied since the defeat at Marignano 510 years ago.
Switzerland is a sovereign state that guarantees coexistence in freedom. One of its special features lies in its four national languages, as well in its twenty-six cantons and its federalism. We have made compromises and conducted constructive diplomacy through mutual concessions.
In his recently published book “Peace and Justice”, the former diplomat Jean-Daniel Ruch emphasised the three pillars of neutrality law, neutrality policy and the perception of neutrality. He would probably have liked to mediate a conference between the conflict parties USA, Russia and Ukraine. Switzerland has done this in many conflicts in the past. Unfortunately, our Federal Council squandered this opportunity in spring 2022.
Humanity wants peace and no more wars. That is why we must not allow our neutrality to atrophy any further. That is why the popular initiative “Safeguarding Swiss neutrality” deserves our full support.
Georges Bösch, Sirnach TG
At the beginning of April, I had the opportunity to accept an invitation from the ICRC to attend the ‘To heal a world’ exhibition in Olten. The event began with a lecture by Andreas Notter at the Olten Photo Museum. As Head of Protection Operations, he presented his work in various conflict zones. I was very impressed by the commitment with which he presented the role of mediator between hostile parties. In his presentation, he epitomised the basic principles of the ICRC: humanity, impartiality, neutrality and others.
Mr Notter used many examples to demonstrate the knowledge that prisoners of war, injured soldiers or rebels, suffering families and others can only be helped through patient, humane work. It is absolutely essential for his work and the work of countless other aid workers that the ICRC’s principles are and remain internationally recognised. Confidentiality is also needed in order to be able to move between hostile parties and to negotiate with dialogue partners in a trusting and clear manner. Otherwise, any room for negotiation is forfeited. His presentation reminded me of the book by Werner Rings: “Advokaten des Feindes. Das Abenteuer der politischen Neutralität” (Advocates of the Enemy. The adventure of political neutrality).
When I read about the rash partisanship of Swiss politicians, I am often appalled at how quickly they make judgements, condemn, believe they know what is right und who is on the right side. In this way, Swiss politics forfeits it’s best foundation, namely the neutrality.
In addition to the discussions and the guided tour of the exhibition, the lecture by the active ICRC staff member was an unforgettable experience.
Margret Kleine, Zurich
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