New Delhi: Switzerland, known for its long-standing policy of neutrality, is facing calls for a drastic shift in its defense strategy after 500 years of non-alliance. A bombshell report released on Thursday has recommended that the country, historically neutral since 1515, should now pursue closer defense cooperation with the EU and NATO due to escalating security concerns.Did Russias invasion broke Swiss neutralityFears surrounding Russian President Vladimir Putins aggressive actions in Ukraine have prompted Switzerland to reassess its neutrality. The report, compiled by a group of experts including senior diplomats, officials, and former military leaders, stresses that Switzerland needs to align itself more closely with NATO and the EU on defense matters to ensure its safety.Since the Russian attack on Ukraine, neutrality has once again become the subject of political debate, both at home and abroad. Pressure on Switzerland to clarify its position is growing, the report states, calling for a revision of the nations neutrality policy.Arms export restrictionsSwitzerlands strict arms export laws have also come under scrutiny. The countrys neutrality prohibits arms sales to nations at war, which has strained its relations with other countries wishing to send military aid to Ukraine. The report urges the government to lift the re-export ban that prevents Swiss-made weapons and ammunition from being transferred to conflict zones.In 2022, Switzerlands arms exports dropped by 27%, primarily due to these restrictive policies. The report suggests that Switzerland should strengthen its arms industry by enhancing offset policies and integrating into EU and NATO armament programs.Russias invasion changes Europes security statistics The report is seen as another consequence of Russias 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which has reshaped Europes security landscape. The unprovoked attack led to Sweden and Finland abandoning their neutrality and joining NATO. The experts behind the Swiss report argue that Switzerland should consider similar moves toward deeper military cooperation, though they stop short of recommending full NATO membership.The Swiss government has already begun to show signs of shifting its position. This month, the Swiss federal council approved participation in two of the EUs Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) projects focused on military mobility and cyber defense.Experts term the report as EXPLOSIVE!The report has been described as explosive by experts and is expected to stir considerable debate within Switzerland. Opposition parties, particularly from pacifist and nationalist far-right groups, have criticized Defense and Security Minister Viola Amherd for appointing experts who favor closer ties with NATO and the EU.Despite the controversy, Jean-Marc Rickli, head of global and emerging risks at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy, pointed out that the report underlines Switzerlands Western values. The report makes it clear that Switzerland is a Western country and therefore supports Western values, he said, adding that the call for increased military cooperation is likely to trigger strong reactions within the country.Strengthening defense amid hybrid warfare threatsThe report calls for a significant increase in military spending, aiming for 1% of GDP by 2030, up from the current 0.76%. Although an invasion of Switzerland is considered unlikely, the country is already facing threats from hybrid warfare, including cyberattacks, espionage, and disinformation campaigns. The experts recommend a comprehensive approach to defense that involves preparing the entire society, not just the military, for potential conflict.Moving toward closer EU, NATO tiesIn recent months, Switzerland has signaled a willingness to strengthen ties with NATO and the EU. On Wednesday, a Swiss delegation met with NATOs Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) in Luxembourg to explore opportunities for collaboration. By cozying up to NATO and the EU, Switzerland aims to demonstrate its commitment to European security and avoid being seen as a free rider in times of crisis.As Europes security dynamics evolve, Switzerland faces the challenge of maintaining its neutrality while ensuring it remains prepared for modern threats. The recommendations from this landmark report will play a crucial role in shaping Switzerlands defense strategy for the coming years.
