Interview with the president of the Swiss Confederation 2023

2022 was marked by crises: the COVID pandemic, the war in Ukraine, the energy crisis. How can we look to the future with confidence?
Crises are unsettling, they unnerve us and cause much suffering. But they can also serve as an opportunity. For example, the pandemic taught us to find pragmatic solutions even though we were starting from scratch. We have to remain curious, committed and flexible. And above all, we have to be supportive and ensure that everyone in our country has the same opportunities. In a world marked by crises, social cohesion is crucial. We must make sure that no one is forgotten.

Switzerland is a member of the UN Security Council this year. What are its priorities?
Switzerland holds an important place on the international stage, not least thanks to Geneva. Switzerland must remain open to the world and continue to be an advocate of multilateralism and democracy. These are increasingly being called into question at the moment. The big problems, such as poverty or climate change, can only be solved by working together. Switzerland will continue its humanitarian efforts and peacebuilding activities. Protecting the civilian population will also be one of our priorities.

How do we find our way in a world in which everything changes so quickly?
We must hold on to what makes our country special. Switzerland has always been able to adapt and innovate. It is built on strong institutions. This year we are celebrating the 175th anniversary of our constitution. We must continue to stand up for our culture of debate, our ability to compromise and our democracy.