Political Affairs

The Political department monitors the evolution of the UK internal and external policies and informs the Swiss authorities about political decisions and policy trends that are of relevance for Switzerland. It represents the Swiss interests towards the British authorities and liaise with them on matters of common interest such as for exemple the promotion of human rights, the functionning of the international organisations, environment matters, the situation in conflict zones or proliferation.

The department’s extensive network of contacts enables it to carry out its work. In particular, it actively cultivates contacts with the different Departments of the British government, the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Switzerland and different think tanks and NGOs. An important instrument for promoting mutual understanding and defending Swiss interests are working visits to London by Swiss politicians and high level officials as well as similar visits to Bern by their British counterparts. The Department also promotes contacts and exchanges of views among Swiss and British stakeholders on political issues through the organisation of workshops and other events.