Can Switzerland remain neutral? Geopolitics through a Swiss lense

We are pleased to invite you to a conference followed by a dinner on the topic:

Can Switzerland remain neutral? Geopolitics through a Swiss lense

Originally imposed after Napoleon's wars, Switzerland's neutrality evolved as the country realised it had more to contribute to humanity by acting as an impartial intermediary than by joining wars.

But the very notion of neutrality is challenged whenever global powers deem they are leading just wars. The war on terror after 9/11 was an emblematic example as President George W. Bush declared: “Every nation, in every region, now has a decision to make. Either you are with us or you are with the terrorists”.

Now, with the war in Ukraine polarising world powers, neutrality is seen as veiled sympathy for Russia by NATO and its allies. Switzerland’s refusal to allow donations of Swiss weapons to Ukraine has fuelled condemnation.

As the conflict comes closer to home, neutrality is again being challenged within Switzerland itself. Some consider it cowardice. Others see it as vital – or contrary – to the nation’s interest.

Drawing on his own experiences and Switzerland’s role as host to international diplomacy, institutions and peacemaking, Alexandre Liebeskind will explore the threats, opportunities and realities around the confederation staying neutral.

We are very pleased that Andreas Maager, Consul General of Switzerland in Marseille, will be attending the event.

As there is no absolute truth in ethical dilemmas, a lively Q&A session will follow.

The conference will be held in English.

About the speaker

A Swiss citizen and graduate of the Institute of International Relations in Geneva, Alexandre Liebeskind spent his early career at Paribas bank before joining the International Committee of the Red Cross in 1997. His assignments included Israel and Palestine, Democratic Republic of Congo, Colombia, Liberia, Nepal, Iraq and Sudan, where he led ICRC operations in Darfur from 2004 to 2006.

In Geneva, he then coordinated Horn of Africa operations and served as secretary of the committee and personal advisor to ICRC Presidents Jakob Kellenberger and Peter Maurer.

Alexandre joined the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) in Nairobi in 2013 and has led peacemaking efforts in Francophone Africa as regional director since 2015. From 2010 to 2019, he was an elected board member of the Médecins Sans Frontières operational centre in Brussels and was appointed vice-president of the organisation in 2015.

About HD

The Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) works to prevent and resolve armed conflict through mediation and discreet diplomacy. An impartial and independent non-profit organisation based in Geneva, HD runs peacemaking projects in more than 80% of the world’s violent conflicts. Since 1999, HD has built global reach, multi-track methods and extensive networks to operate beyond the constraints of traditional diplomacy and engage all parties in pursuit of peace.

Menu

Welcome drink

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Sea bream ceviche with seasonal fruit

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Cod fillet, sweet potato and shiitake

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Virgin baba with red fruits

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Water

Coffee or tea

White wine

Red wine