Swiss President: Joining Sanctions Against Russia Does Not Contradict Neutrality

Direct Speech: "When a country grossly violates international rules, you cannot just return to business as usual. That is why Switzerland has clearly condemned the aggressive war from the beginning and fully joined the EU's sanctions."

Details: Berset recalled that Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine violated all principles of international law according to the UN Charter.

Context: In the wake of Russia's full-scale aggression against Ukraine, the Swiss Federal Council clarified last year that the country's neutrality is compatible with the sanctions of the European Union against Russia but not with membership in NATO.

Swiss Stance on Neutrality and Sanctions Against Russia

In a significant departure from its historical stance of neutrality, Switzerland has joined the European Union in imposing sanctions against Russia, in response to the latter's military actions in Ukraine. This move has sparked a debate about the meaning of Swiss neutrality in modern international relations, especially in the context of large-scale conflicts that challenge the established order.

The Nature of Swiss Neutrality

Swiss neutrality has been a cornerstone of the nation's foreign policy for centuries, characterized by non-participation in armed conflicts and a balanced approach to international relations. However, the nature of neutrality is evolving in the face of global challenges that demand a unified response from the international community.

President Alain Berset's Defense of Swiss Position

Alain Berset, the President of the Swiss Confederation, in his interview with Swissinfo, defended Switzerland's decision to join EU sanctions against Russia. He stressed that when international laws and principles are blatantly violated, neutrality does not mean inaction or indifference.

The Legal and Ethical Considerations

Berset highlighted that Russia's actions against Ukraine have shattered the principles of international law as defined by the United Nations Charter. In such scenarios, Switzerland believes it is crucial to take a stand to preserve these principles. The decision to join sanctions, according to Berset, aligns with Switzerland's commitment to uphold international law and is not in contradiction with its stance of neutrality.

The Risk of Being a Sanctions Bypass

A significant concern for Switzerland was the risk of becoming a conduit for circumventing international sanctions. Berset noted that had Switzerland not adopted the sanctions, it could have quickly become a hub for sanction evasion, which would be incompatible with the concept of neutrality.

Switzerland's Role on the International Stage

Berset emphasized that Switzerland's strength does not lie in the export of arms but in its firm commitment to multilateralism and international law. This stance, he argued, is well understood and respected on the international stage.

Switzerland's Contribution in Ukraine

In the context of Ukraine, Switzerland can offer support in areas like demining, which aligns with its humanitarian tradition and expertise in peaceful conflict resolution and reconstruction.

The Clarification by the Federal Council

In the previous year, the Swiss Federal Council made it clear that while the country's neutrality is compatible with adhering to EU sanctions against Russia, it does not extend to NATO membership, maintaining a clear line between economic sanctions and military alliances.

Conclusion

Switzerland's decision to join EU sanctions against Russia marks a significant moment in the country's foreign policy, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of neutrality in the 21st century. By standing against violations of international law while maintaining its non-military stance, Switzerland is navigating a complex global landscape, reaffirming its commitment to peace, stability, and the rule of law.