Coronavirus: Federal Council adopts strategy for the coming months and launches consultation on fourth round of reopening steps

At its meeting on 12 May, the Federal Council adopted a 3-phase model setting out its strategy for the coming months. At the end of May, when all those at especially high risk who wish to be vaccinated have received their jabs, the government will move from a protection phase to a stabilisation phase and initiate a fourth round of reopening steps. If the epidemiological situation allows, restaurants, for example, will be allowed to resume service indoors on Monday, 31 May. The maximum number of people allowed to attend public events will be increased. For businesses that carry out regular testing, working from home will become a recommendation rather than a requirement. The Federal Council will send out the proposals to the cantons, the relevant parliamentary committees and social partners for consultation. A decision will then be taken on 26 May.

Middle East: Switzerland calls for immediate de-escalation and respect for international law

The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) is extremely concerned about the ongoing escalation of violence in Israel and in the occupied Palestinian territory. It reiterates its call on all parties to respect their obligations under international law.

Coronavirus: Federal Council decides to maintain protective measures and calls on the public to get vaccinated

From 1 October, tests for people without symptoms will no longer be free of charge. The Federal Council is launching a consultation on these proposals and will announce its decision on 25 August.

Farewell and welcome! At Bernerhof, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis highlights intergenerational complementarity at the FDFA

Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis invited retiring and newly appointed staff from three different career paths within the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) to a ceremony at the Bernerhof. The event focused on sharing experiences and on how staff of different generations complement each others' work.

Gim Huay Neo Appointed to World Economic Forum Managing Board

As a member of the Managing Board, Gim Huay will head the Forum’s Centre for Nature and Climate from 1 January 2022. She is currently the Managing Director of Climate Change Strategy at Temasek International.