DETEC Press releases
Federal Council to strengthen cyber resilience of digital products
Although preventing security vulnerabilities is crucial for cybersecurity, Switzerland currently has few regulations regarding the cyber resilience of digital products. The Federal Council aims to change this. At its meeting on 20 August, it tasked the DDPS, in collaboration with DETEC and the EAER, with drafting a bill to be submitted for consultation. This new legislation will raise security requirements for products containing digital components, responding to the demands of Motion 24.3810, ‘Conducting urgently needed cybersecurity checks’, which was submitted by the Security Policy Committee of the Council of States.
Electronic signatures: data access period extended
When a certificate that validates an electronic signature is revoked, information about the revocation must now remain accessible online for at least 11 years. The Federal Council approved this revision to the Ordinance on the Electronic Signature at its meeting on 20 August.
Postal services: Modernisation of universal service
The universal postal and payment transaction services are to be adapted to the changing habits and needs of the public and businesses. Legal certainty is to be established regarding which postal activities are permissible besides the universal service. At its meeting on 13 August 2025, the Federal Council adopted key parameters for a revision of the law on postal services.
Plastics treaty negotiations in Geneva: Switzerland calls for effective agreement – outcome remains open
Federal Councillor Albert Rösti and FOEN Director Katrin Schneeberger will represent Switzerland at the fifth round of negotiations on a global agreement against plastic pollution from 5 to 14 August 2025. Switzerland is committed to an effective and practicable agreement to protect the environment and health, while emphasising the challenges of agreeing on a set of global rules.
UN Sustainable Development Goals: Switzerland calls on all stakeholders to step up cooperation
This year's High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) is taking place from 14 to 23 July 2025 at the UN headquarters in New York. The Swiss delegation is being led by Markus Reubi, the Federal Council Delegate for the 2030 Agenda at the FDFA and will focus on economic growth and decent work.
Swiss timber harvest lower by 2% in 2024
In 2024, 4.8 million cubic metres of timber were harvested in Switzerland, a decrease of almost 2% compared with the previous year. A decrease was observed in the sawlog (–2%) and chopped fuel wood (–11%) categories, while the harvest of industrial roundwood (+4%) and fuel wood chips (+3%) increased. The wood chip share of the total harvest – now around 30% – has been growing for years. The share of fuel wood in the total timber harvest has almost doubled in the last 20 years. These are some of the new findings from the Forestry Statistics published by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).
Biodiversity in the Agricultural Landscape: Lessons from Ten Years of Monitoring
Agroscope has monitored the biodiversity of the Swiss agricultural landscape since 2015. Taken as a whole, the situation has not changed over this period. Individual improvements can be observed in the ecological focus areas in particular.
Switzerland to host a global summit on artificial intelligence in 2027
On 25 June 2025, the Federal Council expressed its intention to host an artificial intelligence (AI) summit in Geneva in 2027.
Modernisation of emergency call access
In future, people with hearing impairments will be able to contact the emergency services (police, fire service and medical emergency number) in writing using the text function on their smartphones. The bill also proposes recording the short number 142 for victim support in an ordinance. This creates the necessary clarity for implementation. The Federal Council put a corresponding revision of the relevant leigislation out for consultation on 20 June.
Energy use slightly higher in 2024
In 2024 Switzerland's final energy consumption increased by 1% year-on-year to 776,220 tera-joules (TJ). The main reasons for this were the colder weather compared to the previous year and the increase in aviation fuel sales.
Federal Councillor Albert Rösti signs carbon storage agreement with Norway
During his working visit to Norway on 16 and 17 June, Federal Councillor Albert Rösti signed an agreement on carbon storage with Norwegian Minister of Energy Terje Aasland. The agreement will allow Swiss CO2 to be stored in Norway and also enable both countries to trade negative emissions in a state-recognised framework. This represents a pioneering global agreement under the Paris Agreement.
Swiss–EU package: Federal Council approves agreements and opens consultation process
At its meeting on 13 June 2025, the Federal Council approved the agreements in the new package to stabilise and develop Switzerland's bilateral approach with the EU and opened the domestic consultation process. After Switzerland brought the negotiations with the EU to a successful close in December 2024, the Federal Council finalised the implementing legislation and accompanying measures. Previously unresolved issues concerning wage protection, immigration, electricity and the type of referendum to be held have since been settled and presented to the public over the last five months. The consultation process will last until 31 October 2025. With this package, the Federal Council is aiming for customised sectoral participation in the EU single market as well as cooperation in selected areas. Given the current global unrest, maintaining good relations with neighbouring countries is key.
Carbon storage: Federal Councillor Albert Rösti on working visit to Norway
Federal Councillor Albert Rösti will travel to Norway on 16 and 17 June to strengthen bilateral cooperation on carbon storage. The programme includes signing a bilateral agreement and visiting companies operating in the field of carbon capture and storage.
Swiss Post meets its universal service obligations for payment transactions
In 2024 at least 95.8% of the population in all cantons was able to use cash payment services (including service at home) offered by Swiss Post. In its annual analysis, the Federal Office of Communications OFCOM concludes that Swiss Post once again fulfilled its universal service obligations.
Tests show sustainable aviation fuel produces less fossil CO2 and less particulate matter
Two years ago, the Swiss Air Force and the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) carried out tests on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at the Payerne military airbase. These tests confirmed that SAF reduces emissions of soot particles and fossil CO2.
Standardize airspace users’ electronic visibility to make the sky safer
The FOCA wants to build a fully connected airspace by 2035. To this end, within the project FASST-CH, the FOCA is asking owners and pilots to ensure that their aircraft are electronically conspicuous, contributing thereby to make the airspace safer. A list of recommended technologies has been published for this purpose.
Civil aviation: 2024 Annual Safety Report published
The Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) processed over 12,500 incident reports in 2024 – significantly more than in previous years, as detailed in the recently published Annual Safety Report. Incident reports contribute to the ongoing improvement of safety on the ground and in the air. Last year, there was one fatal accident in commercial aviation in Switzerland.
Direct rail connection between Switzerland and London: Parties sign Memorandum of Understanding
Federal Councillor Albert Rösti, head of the Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC), met the UK’s Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander in London on 8 May. They signed a joint memorandum of understanding on increased cooperation in international rail passenger transport. The aim of the MoU is to establish a direct railway link between Switzerland and the UK.
Support for the media: Federal Council welcomes measures that can be implemented quickly
Independent and diversified media play a key role in a democratic society. The Federal Council therefore welcomes the targeted increase in support for electronic media as proposed by the Council of States Transport and Telecommunications Committee. At its meeting on 30 April, the Federal Council adopted its opinion on the committee report in which it requests Parliament to approve the Committee's draft bill.
RailCom promotes participation in the rail sector
The Rail Transport Commission RailCom publishes its activity report today, in which it emphasises the importance of participation to ensure fair access to the rail network. It also reports on its ongoing proceedings and on its new chair, Dr Barbara Furrer, who has taken over from Patrizia Danioth Halter.
Consultation on the partial revision of the Postal Services Ordinance
In future, Swiss Post is to be given more flexibility in the home delivery of letters, parcels and daily newspapers. Universal service should also take greater account of the high level of digitalisation among the public and businesses and so be expanded to include digital offerings. The Federal Council put a corresponding revision of the Postal Services Ordinance out to consultation on 16 April 2025.
DETEC awards TV licence in Biel/Bienne to Canal B
On 3 April 2025, the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) has again awarded the licence for regional television in the Biel/Bienne coverage area to Canal B.
Switzerland signs Council of Europe Convention on Artificial Intelligence
On 27 March Federal Councillor Albert Rösti will sign the Council of Europe Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law in Strasbourg on Switzerland’s behalf. By signing the agreement, Switzerland is reaffirming its commitment to the responsible use of AI technologies in accordance with fundamental rights.
Consultation launched on programme to expand high-speed internet throughout Switzerland
The Federal Council’s gigabit strategy aims to provide access to high-speed internet throughout Switzerland. A temporary funding programme will drive forward the expansion of broadband via fibre optic and wireless infrastructure. At its meeting on 14 March 2025, the Federal Council opened the consultation on the new Broadband Promotion Act.
The Federal Council elected Ferruccio Bianchi as a new member of RailCom
This press release is available in German, French and Italian.
Publication of report on EU data policy monitoring
The digital policy activities of the EU (European Union) can also impact Switzerland under certain circumstances. Swiss companies nevertheless do not face significant risks regarding the EU’s access to the single market at this time, according to a report published by the Federal Administration on 17 February 2025 analysing the impact of EU digital policy on Switzerland.
AI regulation: Federal Council to ratify Council of Europe Convention
Switzerland intends to ratify the Council of Europe Convention on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and to make the necessary amendments to Swiss law. Work will also continue on the regulation of AI in specific sectors such as healthcare and transport. The Federal Council spoke out in favour of this approach at its meeting on 12 February.
Federal Councillor Albert Rösti at the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit in Paris
At the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit in Paris on 10 and 11 February, Federal Councillor Albert Rösti highlighted the opportunities that AI offers to society and the economy. In particular, he stressed the need to adopt an inclusive approach in the global debate on AI. Switzerland has also expressed an interest in hosting the next AI Action Summit. He also signed two memorandums of understanding with French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot aimed at developing cross-border rail traffic between Switzerland and France.
2030 Agenda implementation: FDFA assesses progress at federal and cantonal levels and in organisations
Every four years, Switzerland presents to the other UN member states how it is progressing in implementing the 2030 Agenda's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In its country report, which will be presented in mid-2026, it will also draw on information from the cantons, communes and organisations from the business community, the financial centre, academia and civil society. All relevant actors have until the end of May 2025 to submit details of their activities via the 'SDGital2030' digital platform.
Negotiating mandate for recognition of electronic signatures
Electronic signatures on documents should be recognised in Switzerland and in the European Union (EU). At its meeting on 29 January 2025, the Federal Council instructed the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) to draw up a corresponding mandate for negotiating with the EU, in collaboration with the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).
Climate: Federal Council approves new reduction targets under the Paris Agreement
At its meeting on 29 January, the Federal Council approved Switzerland's new reduction target under the Paris Agreement. This corresponds to the reduction path of the Swiss Climate and Innovation Act. By 2035, Switzerland should reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by at least 65 per cent compared to 1990 levels, and by 59 per cent on average between 2031 and 2035. The objectives are to be achieved primarily through domestic measures. At the same time, the Federal Council approved an amendment to the long-term climate strategy.
Swiss data ecosystem: Contact point becomes operational
At its meeting on 15 January, the Federal Council was informed that the Swiss data ecosystem contact point has commenced work. The contact point supports public authorities, businesses and organisations in establishing trusted data spaces. Its groundwork contributes to better exploiting the potential of data in Switzerland, thus creating additional value for society, the economy and research.
Swiss Federal Office of Energy awards the 2025 Watt d'Or energy prize
This evening, 9 January 2025, the Swiss Federal Office of Energy will award Switzerland's prestigious energy prize, the Watt d'Or, for the eighteenth time. The winners of gold for 2025 are: Matica AG from Kaltenbach (TG) together with Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts HSLU (Energy Technologies category), ewb together with Lubera AG from Buchs, Saint Gallen (Renewable Energies category), Galliker Transport AG from Altishofen (LU) (Energy Efficient Mobility category), and IWB from Basel (Buildings and Space category). The jury's special prize will be awarded to Genossenschaft Elektra, Jegenstorf (BE) together with Groupe E (FR), Azienda Elettrica di Massagno AEM (TI) and EKZ with ETH Zurich (ZH). The Watt d’Or trophy – a snow globe – will be presented to the winners by the distinguished jury, headed by Susanne Vincenz-Stauffacher, at the Kongresszentrum Kursaal in Bern. The event will be attended by hundreds of representatives from the Swiss energy scene, including politicians, business people and researchers.
Network security and cybersecurity: OFCOM strengthens its commitment
Since 1 January 2025, the Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) has two units specialising in cybersecurity and the security of telecommunications networks. The Market Access and Cybersecurity Section (MC) is responsible in particular for verifying that radiocommunications equipment complies with privacy and personal data protection requirements. The aim of the Networks and Services Security Section (SND) is to maintain and improve the security and availability of telecommunications networks and services.
Federal Council takes note of substantive conclusion of Swiss–EU negotiations
At its meeting on 20 December 2024, the Federal Council took note with satisfaction the material conclusion of negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union (EU). It noted that the Swiss delegation, led by chief negotiator Patric Franzen, has met the objectives set under the negotiating mandate. The Federal Council has instructed the relevant departments to undertake the preparatory work needed to formally conclude negotiations.
Increase in delivery discounts for newspapers and magazines in 2025
In 2025, local and regional daily and weekly publications benefitting from indirect support for print media will receive a discount of 28 centimes per copy distributed by Swiss Post, 3 centimes more than in 2024. Titles published by associations and foundations will benefit from a support of 22 centimes per copy, an increase of 2 centimes compared to this year. The Federal Council set these amounts at its meeting on 13 December 2024.
Mathias Gantenbein appointed new deputy director of the FOCA
The Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) has appointed Mathias Gantenbein as the new deputy director of the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA). He is currently head of Strategy and Management Support at the FOCA. DETEC informed the Federal Council of the appointment at the latter’s meeting on 27 November 2024. Mr Gantenbein will take up his new role on 1 January 2025, replacing Martin Schmid Ding.
Antibiotic resistance: further efforts required despite progress made so far
The new “Swiss Antibiotic Resistance Report 2024” (SARR 2024) shows that the use of antibiotics, particularly in veterinary medicine, continues to decline. At the same time, the report highlights the need for further efforts to ensure appropriate use of antibiotics and to combat resistance. Monitoring of antibiotic use and of the development of resistance in humans, farm and companion animals and the environment is a key tool for implementing the Swiss Strategy on Antibiotic Resistance (StAR) of the federal offices responsible for public health (FOPH), food safety and veterinary affairs (FSVO), agriculture (FOAG) and the environment (FOEN).
Financial Markets Climate Test 2024
In 2024 the FOEN conducted the PACTA Climate Test for the fourth time. The test assesses the climate impact of the participating Swiss financial institutions' investment portfolios. The results of the latest test show that a majority of financial institutions now include the net-zero target in their corporate strategy. However, they are not yet doing enough to meet this target. The internationally coordinated PACTA test is conducted on the initiative of the Federal Office for the Environment FOEN in conjunction with the State Secretariat for International Finance SIF.
Czech President Petr Pavel on state visit to Switzerland
On Wednesday, 6 November, the second day of the state visit, the president of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel, and First Lady Eva Pavlová were received on Bundesplatz by the federal government, led by President Viola Amherd. The official speeches and the talks that followed focused on the security situation and outlook for the European continent, as well as on bilateral relations between Switzerland and the Czech Republic.
Rail sector: Federal Councillor Rösti signs memorandum of understanding with India
Switzerland and India want to pursue and intensify their cooperation in the rail sector. Federal Councillor Albert Rösti and India's Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw signed a memorandum of understanding on 29 October during an online meeting.
Czech President Petr Pavel to pay state visit to Switzerland
Next week the Federal Council, led by President Viola Amherd, will receive the President of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel, for a state visit. The Federal Council’s invitation to President Pavel and First Lady Eva Pavlová reflects the excellent relations between Switzerland and the Czech Republic. In addition to shared values and vibrant political, economic and cultural exchanges, the two countries share close personal and historical ties.
Matthias Hürlimann appointed head of OFCOM's Telecom Services and Post Division
Federal Councillor Albert Rösti has appointed Matthias Hürlimann as vice-director of the Federal Office of Communications and head of the Telecom Services and Post Division. The 51-year-old lawyer will take up his new position on 1 November 2024.
SDG Flag Day in Lugano: Cities play a key role in implementing sustainable development goals
Since 2019, SDG Flag Day has been held every year on 25 September on the initiative of the business community (via the UN Global Compact). Schools, communes, organisations, companies and governments fly flags to symbolically express their support for the 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At the SDG Flag Day event in Lugano, the two Federal Council delegates for the 2030 Agenda, Markus Reubi and Daniel Dubas, emphasised the key role of cities in implementing the 2030 Agenda.
World Radiocommunication Conference: Ratification of the Final Acts
At its meeting on 20 September 2024, the Federal Council ratified the Final Acts of the World Radiocommunication Conference 2023 (WRC-23). This lays down the formal framework for the future use of frequencies in Switzerland. It guarantees that the information and communication sector will have access to the frequencies it needs at national level. The country's military security interests are also protected.
Falling CO2 emissions from operations
The Exemplary Energy and Climate initiative's 2023 Energy and Climate Report shows that the greenhouse emissions (Scope 1 and 2) from the operations of the 18 participating providers of publicly relevant services fell by 7% in total last year. In the report, the three institutional investors – SBB Pension Fund, PUBLICA and Suva – also published the results of the monitoring of their measures for the first time.
SERAFE AG to remain the collection agency for the radio and television fee
SERAFE AG will continue to collect the household radio and television fee for the federal government after 2025. On 14 September 2024, the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) awarded SERAFE AG the mandate for the period 2026 to 2034 following an open tender process. Their bid offered the best price-performance ratio.
Digital Switzerland advisory committee: Exchange on the regulation of artificial intelligence
At the Digital Switzerland advisory board meeting on 11 September 2024, participants discussed possible approaches to regulating artificial intelligence (AI). They agreed that the opportunities offered by AI should be exploited while seeking to minimise the risks for society. Federal Councillor Albert Rösti chaired the meeting, which was also attended by Federal Chancellor Viktor Rossi.
Indirect support for print media: Federal Council rejects fixed-term increase in contributions
At its meeting on 4 September 2024, the Federal Council adopted its opinion on the report of the National Council Transport and Telecommunications Committee (TTC-N) on the parliamentary initiative aimed at increasing indirect financial support to assure an independent press (22.423). Out of media policy and financial policy considerations, it is requesting Parliament not to approve the introduction of the committee's proposal. Should Parliament nevertheless approve the introduction of the bill, the Federal Council proposes a smaller increase in press subsidies and a subsequent return to the current level.
Federal Council elects new Rail Transport Commission RailCom president
On 27 August 2024, the Federal Council elected Dr Barbara Furrer, Hedingen, as the new President of RailCom at the request of DETEC. She will take over the role from Patrizia Danioth Halter, Altdorf, who has headed RailCom successfully and with great commitment for the past 12 years.
RECIPE awarded funding from SWEET programme
A decision has been made on the call for proposals “Critical Infrastructures, Climate Change, and Resilience of the Swiss Energy System”: The RECIPE consortium led by ETH Zurich will receive funding.
#FlyDronesSafely: FOCA information campaign
Switzerland has over 80,000 registered drone operators and the number is growing all the time. Where can I fly my drone? And where not? The Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) is today launching its #FlyDronesSafely campaign to remind drone pilots of the rules and raise awareness of the dangers.
Switzerland and Laos sign bilateral air service agreement
Switzerland and the Lao People's Democratic Republic signed a bilateral air service agreement on 26 July. This agreement modernises the one concluded between the two countries in 1999 and will replace it when it comes into force. It reflects the Federal Council's efforts to improve Switzerland's air connections by giving airlines greater flexibility in their operations.
Helicopters: Switzerland introduces new flight procedure in a first worldwide
The Advanced Rotorcraft Instrument Flight Rules Operation in Switzerland (ARIOS) project aims to ensure safe take-off and landing for helicopters on challenging terrain, at night or in fog. After several years of development, the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA), the air navigation service provider Skyguide and the air rescue organisation Rega are introducing a new flight procedure in Interlaken BE that is unique in Switzerland and worldwide.
Swiss Forestry Statistics 2023 - Swiss timber harvest lower by 6% in 2023
In 2023, 4.9 million cubic metres of timber were harvested in Switzerland, a decrease of almost 6% compared to the previous year. There was a noticeable decline in sawlogs (–12%) and the harvests of industrial roundwood (–1%) and chopped wood (–5%). Meanwhile, the proportion of wood harvested for alternative fuel options (wood chips) continued to grow (+5%) and take up a larger share ‒ around 30% ‒ of the total harvest. The share of fuel wood in the total timber harvest has doubled in the last 20 years. These are some of the findings of the Forestry Statistics published by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).
Preparation for the next award of mobile telephony licences
The Federal Communications Commission (ComCom) has instructed the Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) to prepare for awarding the mobile radio frequencies that will become available in 2029. In the interests of competition and transparency, ComCom is planning a public tender for these frequencies, probably in 2026. Frequency bands will be allocated by means of an auction if there is a shortage of frequencies.
Sustainable food systems in spotlight at High-level Political Forum in New York
Where does the international community stand in the fight against poverty and hunger? This year's High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development at the UN in New York will scrutinise the progress made towards implementing these two goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Switzerland is calling for the inclusion of a new indicator to measure food diversity, thereby strengthening food systems.
Federal Council steps up fight against antibiotic resistance
The number of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is on the rise all over the world. This poses a growing threat to the effective treatment of infections and places a significant burden on health systems, including Switzerland’s. In order to ramp up the fight against antibiotic resistance, the Federal Council adopted the new One Health Action Plan for StAR 2024-2027 as part of the Swiss Antibiotic Resistance Strategy (StAR) at its meeting on 26 June 2024. This Action Plan promotes effective measures, sets out national objectives and takes innovative approaches to ensure the long-term availability and effectiveness of antibiotics to preserve human and animal health.
Energy use slightly higher in 2023
In 2023 Switzerland's final energy consumption increased by 0.3% year-on-year to 767,450 terajoules (TJ). The main reason for this is the ongoing recovery in air traffic following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Switzerland makes important contribution to IAEA's applied nuclear research
On 20 and 21 June, Najat Mokhtar, Deputy Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), will visit Eawag and Spiez Laboratory, where she will hear about their contributions to applied nuclear research.
Federal Council rejects SRG SSR initiative and proposes reducing fee to CHF 300 instead
SRG SSR requires sufficient financial resources to be able to provide equivalent journalistic services in all language regions. The Federal Council therefore rejects the federal popular initiative '200 francs is enough! (SRG SSR Initiative)'. It approved the dispatch on this issue on 19 June 2024. However, the Federal Council wants to ease the financial burden on households and businesses. It has therefore decided to gradually reduce the radio and television licence fee for households to CHF 300 per year by 2029. The Federal Council will not grant SRG SSR a new licence until the vote on the SRG SSR initiative has been held. It is therefore extending the current SRG SSR licence until the end of 2028.
Implementing U-space airspace
Preparations for the first U-space in Swiss airspace are well under way. At its meeting on 14 June, the Federal Council approved the revised ordinances designed to implement the European U-space regulatory package, which Switzerland adopted on 24 November 2022. U-space allows the safe integration of drones into airspace and facilitates complex operations.
Postal service: Modernisation and financial stabilisation of universal services
Universal postal and payment transaction services are to be expanded to include digital offerings and placed on a financially viable footing. At its meeting on 14 June 2024, the Federal Council defined the outlines of a draft consultation on the revision of the Postal Services Ordinance.
Summit on Peace in Ukraine: FOCA authorises night flights at Zurich Airport
The Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) is relaxing night flight restrictions at Zurich Airport for the nights of 15/16 June and 16/17 June. This means that state delegations attending the summit on peace in Ukraine will be able to travel to and from the conference by plane, alongside ongoing flight operations. Delays to scheduled services are to be expected.
Payment transactions: Swiss Post meets the requirements of the universal service
In all cantons, Swiss Post enables at least 95.8% of the population to access cash payment services within 20 minutes. In its annual analysis, the Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) concludes that in 2023 Swiss Post once again fulfilled the requirements of the universal service.
Switzerland and Bangladesh sign bilateral air service agreement
Switzerland and Bangladesh signed a bilateral air service agreement on 4 June. The agreement, the first of its kind between the two countries, reflects the Federal Council's efforts to ensure that Switzerland is connected to as many intercontinental destinations as possible via traffic rights.
Geneva at the centre of high-level discussions on digitalisation and AI
At the WSIS+20 Forum High-Level Event, Federal Councillor Albert Rösti emphasised the challenges posed by developments in the global information society. He emphasised the importance of International Geneva in developing consensus-based solutions in the field of digitalisation. The AI4Good Global Summit, one of the world's most important events on artificial intelligence, is being held in Geneva at the same time.
High-level conference on peace in Ukraine: military support and airspace restriction
At its meeting on 22 May, the Federal Council approved a temporary restriction on the use of airspace during the high-level conference on peace in Ukraine, which Switzerland will be hosting on 15 and 16 June at the Bürgenstock resort in the canton of Nidwalden. The Swiss Air Force will provide air policing and advanced air surveillance services. The Armed Forces will also set up a subsidiary support service to complement the security measures of the cantonal authorities.
Council of Europe adopts Convention on Artificial Intelligence developed with the contribution of Switzerland
On 17 May 2024, the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe adopted the Convention on Artificial Intelligence (AI) at its 133rd Ministerial Session, which was attended by the head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) Ignazio Cassis. The aim of the convention is to ensure compliance with the legal standards applicable to AI in terms of human rights, democracy and the rule of law. Switzerland was actively involved throughout the negotiations, which lasted a year and a half.
Discussions on artificial intelligence and its regulation at the Swiss IGF
This year, the Swiss Internet Governance Forum (Swiss IGF) will be holding debates and discussions on a wide range of topics, from artificial intelligence to data protection and disinformation. The 9th Swiss IGF will be held in Bern on 5 June 2024, and registration is still open.
eID pilot project – Appenzell Ausserrhoden to issue electronic provisional driving licence
The Canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden is to issue the provisional driving licence for learner drivers in digital format. The Federal Office of Justice (FOJ) and the Federal Roads Office (FEDRO), together with the Association of Swiss Road Traffic Offices (asa) and the driver and vehicle licensing office of the Canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden are launching the digital licence with a view to developing the system of state-recognised, electronic credentials (eID). The new document was presented at a joint press conference in Herisau (AR) on 3 May 2024.
Aviation: 2023 Annual Safety Report published
The Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) processed almost 10,000 incident reports in 2023. These contribute to the ongoing improvement of safety on the ground and in the air. Annual safety statistics are published in the Annual Safety Report. This year's report has just come out, and includes the positive news that there were no fatal accidents in commercial aviation in Switzerland in 2023.
Güterverkehr und Mobilitätsdaten im Fokus der RailCom
This media release is available in German, French and Italian.
Electricity consumption down by 1.7% in 2023
In 2023 final electricity consumption in Switzerland was 56.1 billion kilowatt hours (kWh), down on the previous year (-1.7%). Domestic production (after deduction of electricity consumed by storage pumps) was 66.7 billion kWh. The physical electricity export surplus was 6.4 billion kWh.
DETEC approves construction project for taxiway routing around runway 28 at Zurich Airport
The Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) has granted Flughafen Zürich AG planning permission to route a taxiway around runway 28. This will significantly reduce the number of runway crossings by aircraft landing or taxiing for take-off, and meets an important requirement set by the FOCA in a 2012 safety review.
René Dönni Kuoni named as new OFCOM deputy director
René Dönni Kuoni has been appointed deputy director of the Federal Office of Communications OFCOM. The Federal Council acknowledged the appointment at its meeting on 10 April. From 1 November, René Dönni Kuoni will also take over as head of the Licences and Frequency Management Division, succeeding Philippe Horisberger, who is retiring, in both roles.
Federal Council renews its contribution to the Green Climate Fund
Switzerland will continue to support the Green Climate Fund (GCF) with a total contribution of CHF 135 million over the next four years. The Federal Council took this decision at its meeting on 10 April 2024. The GCF helps developing countries take concrete action to achieve the goals of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement. In particular, it funds initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change.
Competition in the telecommunications market is stable
The Swiss telecommunications market offers a wide range of affordable, high-quality and competitive services. The competitive situation is generally stable. In addition, the population has access to a reliable and affordable universal service. This is the conclusion reached by the Federal Council in its first evaluation report on the Swiss telecommunications market, which it adopted at its meeting on 15 March 2024.
Launch of SWEET call for proposals on topic of Net Zero
The Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) and the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) are launching a new call for proposals for the SWEET funding programme. The topic is 'Addressing Hard-To-Abate Emissions to Reach the Net-Zero Target of Switzerland'. This concerns greenhouse gas emissions from industry, waste incineration plants and agriculture that are difficult to avoid. The call for proposals will run until 3 July.
Federal Energy Research Concept 2025–2028: research for our security of supply
The Federal Energy Research Commission CORE and the Federal Office of Energy have published the government’s new research concept for 2025 to 2028.
Swiss–EU relations: Federal Council approves definitive negotiating mandate
At its meeting on 8 March 2024, the Federal Council approved the negotiating mandate with the EU in its definitive form. The mandate adopted takes account of the results of the consultation with the foreign affairs committees (FACs) and other interested parliamentary committees, the cantons and the views of the social and economic partners. Negotiations will begin as soon as the European Commission has adopted its own definitive mandate, expected sometime in March 2024.
Publikationshinweis: Rat für Raumordnung: «Lebendige Peripherien in der Schweiz: Transformation gemeinsam gestalten»
Der Rat für Raumordnung (ROR) hat am 22. Februar 2024 seinen Bericht der Legislatur 2020–2023 mit dem Titel «Lebendige Peripherien in der Schweiz: Transformation gemeinsam gestalten» publiziert.
Carbon neutral aviation: Federal Council adopts report
At its meeting on 21 February 2024, the Federal Council approved the postulate report on carbon neutral flying by 2050. This sets out technical measures for climate-friendly aviation.
Federal Council sets out proposals for media funding independent of broadcast channel
Digital transformation poses major challenges for the Swiss media. Many companies are struggling with declining consumption of traditional media offerings and falling advertising revenues. This has an impact on the diversity of the Swiss media landscape. A postulate report adopted by the Federal Council at its meeting on 21 February 2024 sets out models for future state support for the media. The Federal Council has refrained from recommending a particular option.
First Swiss Field Trial with CRISPR/Cas9-Modified Barley
Agroscope has been granted approval by the Federal Office for the Environment for a field trial with spring barley. The focus is on a barley gene that has been disabled by new breeding techniques. The trial, which will be launched in spring 2024 on the Protected Site in Zurich-Reckenholz and will run for three years, aims to determine whether yields can be increased in this manner.
Programme of members of the Federal Council attending the 2024 WEF Annual Meeting
The 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum is taking place in Davos next week. Six members of the Federal Council will be attending. President Viola Amherd will open the event together with WEF founder Prof. Klaus Schwab on Tuesday, 16 January.
Swiss Federal Office of Energy awards the Swiss energy prize Watt d’Or 2024
This evening, 11 January 2024, the Swiss Federal Office of Energy awards Switzerland’s prestigious energy prize, the Watt d'Or, for the seventeenth time. The winners of gold for 2024 are: AEW Energie AG along with ETH Zurich (Energy Technologies category), Cham Group AG along with Andy Wickart Haustechnik AG, Alfacel AG and pom+Consulting AG (Renewable Energies category), CLEMAP AG along with Otto Fischer AG (Energy Efficient Mobility category), the secondary school Knonau-Maschwanden-Mettmenstetten along with Pro-Energie GmbH (Buildings and Spatial Development category). The Watt d’Or trophy – a snow globe – will be presented to the winners by the distinguished jury headed by National Councilor Susanne Vincenz-Stauffacher at the Kongresszentrum Kursaal in Bern. Hundreds of representatives of Switzerland’s energy scene, including politicians, business people and researchers, will be present.
New licences for 38 local radio and regional television stations
The Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) has issued 38 licences to local radio and regional television stations for the period 2025 to 2034. Most of the existing licence holders will also be awarded the contract for the new period. In one TV and two radio coverage areas, the licence is being awarded to a new applicant.
Consultation on the award of mobile telephony frequencies usable from 2029
From 2029, various mobile telephony frequencies will be available due to expiring mobile radio licences. On 19 December 2023, the Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) opened a public consultation to determine the needs and intentions of the mobile communication sector and other stakeholders for these and other frequencies. The consultation is being conducted on behalf of the Federal Communications Commission (ComCom) and will run until 26 February 2024.
World Radiocommunication Conference 2023: Swiss delegation achieved its goals
At the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-23) in Dubai, which ended on 15 December 2023, important decisions were taken regarding future radio usage. Following intensive four-week negotiations, agreements were reached in the areas of mobile communications, satellites, aviation and science. The Swiss delegation achieved the goals set by the Federal Council.
Indirect support for print media set to fall for local and regional newspapers
In 2024, local and regional daily and weekly newspapers distributed by Swiss Post will benefit from a discount of 25 centimes per copy, 1 centime less than this year. On 15 December 2023, the Federal Council set the amount that will be allocated to subscription newspapers and periodicals next year. Publications of non-profit organisations will benefit from 2 centimes more, i.e. 20 centimes per copy, thanks to unallocated resources.
Federal Council wishes to reduce the geopolitical risks associated with digital infrastructure
The Federal Council intends to strengthen the security of Switzerland's telecommunications and digital infrastructures. At its meeting on 15 December 2023, it adopted a report in response to a postulate (20.3984) calling for a reduction in the geopolitical risks associated with the development of infrastructures such as 5G. DETEC is tasked with presenting a draft revision of the Telecommunications Act.
Federal Council approves draft negotiating mandate with European Union
At its meeting on 15 December, the Federal Council approved the draft negotiating mandate with the European Union (EU). The mandate sets out guidelines for the negotiations, which will get under way once the mandate is definitively adopted, after consultation with Parliament and the cantons.
COP28: global stocktake with commitment to expand renewable energy capacity
The 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) came to a close in Dubai on 13 December. The main topics discussed included the first global stocktake of progress since the Paris Agreement, the phasing out of coal, oil and gas, and rules for the climate-related loss and damage fund in the developing world. The summit adopted the global stocktake with recommendations for keeping the goals of the Paris Agreement within reach. These include a recommendation to increase renewable energy capacity and energy efficiency by 2030 and, for the first time, a recommendation to transition away from coal, oil and gas by 2050. Switzerland worked towards these recommendations.
Federal Council wants whole of Switzerland to have access to high-speed Internet
People across the country should be able to access ultra-high-speed Internet. That is the aim being pursued by the Federal Council in its gigabit strategy. To that end, it is proposing a funding programme to support the expansion of the network outside urban centres. It would be financed primarily with funds from future mobile radio frequency allocations. At its meeting on 8 December 2023, the Federal Council instructed the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) to draft a bill for consultation.
Basis for restricting the essential postal services in the event of severe power shortages
Swiss Post should maintain its basic postal and payment services whenever possible, even in the event of a prolonged power shortage. However, if restrictions are imposed on universal service due to electricity-saving measures, Swiss Post should not face any penalties. At its meeting on 8 December 2023, the Federal Council submitted the corresponding ordinance for consultation.
Switzerland and Togo sign bilateral air transport agreement
International air transport is regulated in a number of intergovernmental agreements. On 4 December, Switzerland signed a new bilateral agreement on scheduled air transport with the Togolese Republic. The existing air transport agreement with the United Arab Emirates was also updated on 5 December 2023.
President Berset presents Switzerland's goals at UN Climate Change Conference COP28
On Friday, 1 December, President Alain Berset, represented Switzerland at the meeting of heads of state at the opening of the 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. A major discussion point at the conference is how to keep within reach the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees. The focus of this year's COP is on the ‘global stocktake’, in which countries, for the first time, jointly take stock of the progress made under the Paris Agreement.
Federal Council releases frequencies for mobile private networks
From 1 January 2024, a frequency range will be available to interested parties for in-house communication using independent mobile networks. This option is provided for in the National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP), along with other adjustments. This was decided by the Federal Council at its meeting on 29 November 2023.
Presidential visit to Oman prior to UN Climate Conference (COP28) in Dubai
President Alain Berset is travelling to Oman and Dubai this week. On Thursday, 30 November, he will meet with Oman’s head of state Sultan Haitham Bin Tariq Al Said. The first Swiss presidential visit to the country will mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations and will focus in particular on cooperation in the fields of renewable energies, tourism and peacebuilding. The President of the Swiss Confederation will then attend the opening of the 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai (United Arab Emirates). Federal Councillor Albert Rösti will also represent Switzerland at the conference.