Position paper for Switzerland
| Committee: | GA First |
| Topic: | Reducing space threats through norms, rules and principles of responsible behaviours |
| Paper text: | |
| Switzerland is against the militarization of space and remains committed to reducing
space threats through maintaining transparency and responsibility in our space activities.
The technological and geopolitical landscape has changed significantly since the “Outer
Space Treaty” entered into force in 1967, and we believe that additional measures must
be taken to ensure that the use of space is reserved for peaceful purposes only. We
support the encouragement of the further development of norms, rules, and principles
regarding outer space in General Assembly resolution 79/22 towards this goal.
Switzerland has been a member of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space since 2008. There, we called for steps to be taken to ensure that armed conflicts do not extend to outer space and supported efforts to prevent the proliferation of anti-satellite and space-to-ground weapons. We further advocate for legally binding agreements to prevent the use of force against space systems and the placing of weapons in orbit. Our main concern is that the lack of definition of space and the overall inadequacy of international space law serves as a roadblock to a permanent solution. Current treaties only ban the placement of weapons of mass destruction in space, with no restrictions on other weapons or methods of interference. Furthermore, these laws are ill-suited for dealing with private actors. We are also interested in taking additional measures to ensure the sustainable use of space, as increasing debris has the potential to damage critical space-based systems used for humanitarian purposes. We hope to collaborate with member states to establish further a mutually beneficial common set of global norms and rules to ensure the peaceful and sustainable use of outer space, towards the development of legally binding international frameworks, to address these concerns. | |
| Committee: | GA First |
| Topic: | The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects |
| Paper text: | |
| Switzerland is committed to bringing an end to the illicit trade of small arms and light weapons
(SALWs). Over the past three decades, the use of SALWs in violent conflict has skyrocketed and
these weapons have become the leading cause of death and injury. Of the 49 major violent
conflicts that have erupted since 1990, SALWs have been utilized in 46. The large-scale death and
destruction that has stemmed from the proliferation of the illicit trade in SALWs proves that it is
imperative that this committee work to find immediate and effective solutions.
We have worked diligently to contribute to the global effort to address this matter. We campaign for improved marking of arms for registration as well as safer storage of ammunition to reduce the risk of diversion from legal channels to illegal trade. We advocate for improved research into the trade of SALWs, supporting research programmes such as the Small Arms Survey in order to prioritize a facts-based approach to policy making. As a founder of the Ammunition Advisory Team (AMAT), an international support mechanism, we are leading an initiative to provide technical advice and training to equip states with long-term expertise in ammunition management. We aim to build stronger consensus on specific measures the international community can take to reduce these threats. We are advocating for the prioritization of safe arms practices, including increasing attention to the storage and tracking of ammunition for weapons. We also hope to encourage delegations to contribute further research into the trade of SALWs so that we can continue to adapt and provide new solutions to a changing problem. Switzerland is confident that this committee can produce positive work on this topic and hopes to work with all Member States who share our commitment to ensuring the safety of all global citizens. | |
| Committee: | GA Second |
| Topic: | Role of the United Nations in promoting development in the context of globalization and interdependence |
| Paper text: | |
| Switzerland is heavily invested in promoting development and recognizes the importance
of such an endeavor in the age of globalization. Development can provide opportunities
for economic prosperity, but the benefits are unevenly distributed between high- and low-
income states. The variety of experiences under globalization can leave low-income
countries vulnerable to mounting debt and limited resource flow, and these varying
inequities require nuanced and interconnected solutions.
We have implemented Sustainable Development Strategy programmes aimed at developing short-term action plans to advance the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 domestically and internationally. We work closely with many UN organizations and multilateral development banks to promote development in conflict-affected areas and low-income states. We advocate for resolution language that works towards advocacy for persons less benefited by globalization. We will also keep in mind our long-term interests such as investment-friendly global economic conditions and a just international order. Switzerland will bear in mind our obligations to the United Nations Charter Articles 55 and 56, as well as the many international organizations we are a member of, including, but not limited to: the UN Commission for Social Development (CSocD), the UN Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD), and the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). We are encouraged by the 2025 Sevilla Commitment and the multilateral support for its adoption. We are looking forward to drafting and adopting resolutions and fostering dialogue on development in low-income states, as well as working with like- minded delegations and ones with varied perspectives alike on the implementation of the 2025 Sevilla Commitment. We hope to build a bridge between diverse delegations and create programmes to support the Sustainable Development Goals in this new age. | |
| Committee: | GA Second |
| Topic: | Protection of global climate for present and future generations of humankind |
| Paper text: | |
| As the global climate crisis worsens, urgent action is needed to advance progressive
international actions that are inclusive to all Member States. Climate change is a reading
cause of rising ocean levels and increased extreme weather, resulting in economic and
humanitarian losses as a consequence. Protection of the global climate is a threat that
affects all states around the globe, and initiative must be taken towards the prevention of
climate change from all Member States.
It is imperative that more developed nations contribute according to their own emissions to the prevention of climate change, as the G20, consisting of China, India, the United States, the European Union, the African Union, and other high-income states, alone contributes to 79% of global emissions as of 2021. Major initiatives can be taken to reduce emissions through the reduction of fossil fuels in producing electricity, such as coal and oil, as well as reducing the consumption of electricity which also causes emissions as found in the United Nations Environmental Programme's 2023 report. We strongly support the transition to net-zero emissions by 2050 under the Paris Agreement and will continue to support all resolutions aimed at reducing emissions and combatting climate change. We stress the need for international cooperation between both high and low-income Member States in this matter and further stress the need for equal representation of all states. Recognizing the differences in emissions produced that cause climate change, we hope that Member States producing higher amounts of emissions advocate for greater action taken to reduce the causes of climate change, including actions taken both domestically through policy as well as actions taken at the United Nations Conference for Protection of the Global Climate to adopt resolutions aimed at reducing climate change equitably for all states. Furthermore, we hope to work with Member States opposed to current legislation in order to find a middle ground, acknowledging that any progress towards combatting climate change is progress. Lastly, we are committed to furthering support for resolutions and strengthening guidelines for all Member States to combat climate change individually while completing contributions according to emissions produced. | |
| Committee: | GA Third |
| Topic: | Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination |
| Paper text: | |
| We are committed to working under the guidelines enshrined within the United Nations
Charter (UNC). Article 1 and Article 1 section 2 of the UNC reads: “The Purposes of the United
Nations are… To develop friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle
of equal rights and self-determination of peoples, and to take other appropriate measures to
strengthen universal peace.”
Moreover, we second the language in Article 55 and emphasize that this committee should, in regards to respecting the principle of self-determination of peoples, promote: "Higher standards of living, full employment, and conditions of economic and social progress and development… solutions to international economic, social, health, and related problems… and international cultural and educational cooperation." Domestically, we are home to numerous international law-making institutions and have a long history of championing international law. We are a party to many international treaties, alongside the United Nations Charter, most importantly being the The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and The International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). We are also party to many United Nations specialized agencies… these include but are not limited to… The International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) and The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (ICRMW). We hope to further work with like-minded delegations and neighboring European countries who are party to the European Union to further develop the need for Member States to adopt certain protections for dependent territories. We also welcome other valuable perspectives. This approach safeguards their rights as outlined within the UN Charter. For each resolution, we also want to ensure we follow the guidelines regarding the right to self-determination outlined by the covenants: the ICCPR and ICESCR. | |
| Committee: | GA Third |
| Topic: | Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas |
| Paper text: | |
| Switzerland strongly supports the improvement of the situation of women and girls in
rural areas, as this is essential for achieving gender equality and sustainable development.
Rural women make up nearly a quarter of the global population and are vital to
agriculture, food security, and environmental protection. Yet, they continue to face
systemic barriers such as limited access to education, land ownership, healthcare, and
financial resources. Addressing these inequalities is key to the realization of human rights
and the advancement of communities.
We reaffirm our commitment to international frameworks such as we are party to the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). We also reaffirm our support for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development—particularly Goals 5 and 10. Switzerland has co-sponsored several major General Assembly resolutions on this topic, including resolution 78/181 (2023), which emphasizes economic inclusion, digital access, and climate resilience for rural women. Domestically, we continue to promote gender equality through legislation supporting women’s economic independence and participation in local and national governance. Internationally, we collaborate with UN Women, the Food and Agriculture Organization, and the International Fund for Agricultural Development to advance rural development programs that prioritize women’s empowerment and opportunity. We encourage Member States to strengthen the implementation of CEDAW Article 14 by ensuring rural women’s equal access to land, resources, and decision-making. We also support renewed funding and cooperation for UN programmes that uplift rural communities. Switzerland remains dedicated to advancing gender equality as a foundation for human rights, sustainable progress, and global stability. | |
| Committee: | GA Plenary |
| Topic: | Our ocean, our future, our responsibility |
| Paper text: | |
| Switzerland greatly values the protection and sustainable development of oceans. We
reaffirm the sentiments and goals outlined in resolution 76/296 “Our oceans, our future,
our responsibility.” Additionally, we understand Member States must act swiftly to
address the variety of threats facing marine environments. The strategies established in
“Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water,” have brought about significant
progress towards protection and sustainable use of oceans. However, the scale and pace
of action is not sufficient to complete Goal 14. Therefore, it is imperative that we take
strides towards Goal 14 targets and the regulation and conservation of marine
environments.
We strongly support the expansion and funding of comprehensive marine research to better understand the effects of climate change and human activity on oceans. Marine environments are rapidly changing due to human activity. Therefore, it is important to maintain adequate surveillance and share findings between States to create educated and timely solutions. Additionally, there are areas of marine research scientists know little about, so we hope to support further exploration. For example, the rapid growth of deep- sea mining and the effects of nearby environments in proximity. Additional research should be endorsed by the UN as scientists do not yet have a comprehensive understanding of the negative effects this practice, as well as others, has on marine ecosystems and landscapes. Furthermore, we hope to improve the protection of marine environments. An important path to achieving this is bettering the monitoring of oceans to ensure marine resources are exploited sustainability and legally. Fishing should be regulated to prevent overfishing and other destructive practices. We also support the expansion of protected marine areas to support the health of ocean ecosystems. Additionally, we would like to strengthen targets to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from maritime shipping as these emissions harm our marine and global environments. | |
| Committee: | GA Plenary |
| Topic: | Strengthening of the coordination of emergency humanitarian assistance of the United Nations |
| Paper text: | |
| Switzerland advocates that strengthening the coordination of emergency humanitarian
assistance is crucial for delivering life-saving resources when such resources have recently
become scarce. Outlined in the United Nations Office for the Coordination of
Humanitarian Affairs' strategic plan for 2023-2026, aid had to be redirected from 190
million people to 114.4 million people due to budget cuts across the international
community. Meanwhile, in 2023, there has been a record amount of violence towards
humanitarian workers, weakening the coordination and delivery of aid. To respond to
these challenges, Switzerland motivates the international community to work with all but
not limited to the following actions: voluntarily yet equitably contribute resources, draft
and adopt resolutions with multi-year plans of preparedness, work to better educate the
coordination assistance, and ensure the safety of humanitarian workers.
Switzerland is an international leader in coordinating aid resources. We are the host to the International Committee of the Red Cross which has worked with governments globally to coordinate aid since 1863. We also host the AidEx Conference which holds workshops to train and strengthen coordination of humanitarian assistance. We are open to working with other delegations in training humanitarian workers in order to better the coordination of assistance. We believe that, in accordance with the Economic and Social Council’s resolution 2024/8, we can contribute to creating multi-year plans with risk- management and resilience objectives that will instill preparedness for climate disasters globally. We recognize that strengthening the coordination of emergency humanitarian assistance can be a matter of life and death for those in need and that is why we will encourage compromise and productive dialogue to allow the most assistance possible with the available resources. | |
| Committee: | CND |
| Topic: | Promoting alternative development as a development-oriented drug control strategy that is sustainable and inclusive |
| Paper text: | |
| Switzerland strongly supports the Promotion of alternative development as a
development-oriented drug control strategy. As outlined by resolution 68/196, adopted by
the General Assembly, Switzerland’s position is guided by the leading principles of
alternative development. These principles include the ideas that are the basis of
alternative development, and how they can be beneficial to the international community.
We recognize that the drug trade is a by involving ourselves in alternative development
initiatives around the globe such as our involvement in Myanmar, we can aid in the
strengthening of not only the lives of those who have been affected, but the economical
situations as well. This experience helped to provide our delegation with a greater
perspective on the productivity of alternative development.
We commend resolution 67/4 adopted by the CND as a hallmark achievement, marking the first inclusion of language on harm reduction and prevention for the first time ever. These outlined measures are central to our approach to a drug control strategy. We believe this initiative can be a guiding principle for all the valuable perspectives Member States hold in the cause that we can support along with other like-minded countries. In addition, we support policies that will help to combat the development of drug trade in its entirety. Our primary objective is to lead and collaborate with Member States to co-author a resolution that follows a report to further advance alternative development strategies. By communicating with all Member States on the Commission, we can work toward the livelihood of all affected by the cultivation, harvesting and processing of the narcotic drug trade worldwide. | |
| Committee: | CND |
| Topic: | Promoting comprehensive and scientific evidence-based early prevention |
| Paper text: | |
| Switzerland is strongly committed to promoting comprehensive, scientific, and evidence-
based early prevention of drug use as a key element of global drug policy. We understand
that preventing addiction before it starts is both a public health and human rights
necessity that requires full international cooperation. Drug addiction continues to
threaten public health, social stability, and sustainable development worldwide.
Switzerland believes that the international community must focus on early intervention
targeting children, adolescents, and families, as well as integrating prevention into
educational, health, and social systems. We support the goals outlined in the Single
Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961, the Convention on Psychotropic Substances of
1971, and the Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic
Substances of 1988, which reaffirm the need for early, evidence-based approaches to
drug prevention. We also highlight the importance of aligning all prevention strategies
with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, especially SDGs 3, 4, and 16.
We believe the best way forward is through cooperation among Member States, and regional partners to enhance data-driven and humane prevention programs. Switzerland suggests expanding access to early prevention services for at-risk youth, backing community-based and school-based initiatives, and improving the collection of scientific evidence. We support collaboration with Member States involved with the European Union, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, and the Organization of American States, to promote best practices. In addition, we recognize other blocs, multilateral initiatives, and the variety of perspectives that contribute towards the progress of this Commission. Further, we value harm reduction and treatment programs, such as heroin-assisted therapy, as effective tools for prevention and reintegration. By emphasizing compassion, science, and cooperation, we can protect youth, minimize harm, and build healthier, more resilient societies. | |
| Committee: | COI-2005 |
| Topic: | Commission of Inquiry on Darfur |
| Paper text: | |
| According to the UNHCR, the conflict in Darfur has resulted in the internal displacement of
over one million IDPs, and over 200,000 refugees who have fled to Chad. Widespread
drought has led to famine and forced relocation. Civilians, especially women and children,
are vulnerable to daily violence, and direct assaults on humanitarian aid workers have
occurred. Sudan has failed to comply with Security Council resolution 1556, making no
substantial progress on the Janjaweed’s disarmament, or the identification and
prosecution of parties responsible for carrying out war crimes and violations of human
rights and humanitarian law.
The mandate before the Commission is to investigate these reports, determine whether genocide has occurred, and recommend further action. We should seek to establish two overarching lines of inquiry: (1) What elements under international human rights law have been violated, by whom, and to what degree were these intentional and systemic? (2) Is there evidence of genocide pursuant to the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide? Additional lines of inquiry include: (3) What violations of international humanitarian law were committed, and by what actors? (4) Was the Sudanese Government responsible for arming the Janjaweed? If so, how was the armament executed? To what extent did this support contribute to their operations and the escalation of the conflict? (5) To what degree were the Janjaweed acting on their own accord, or coerced by the Sudanese Government? Did they receive compensation and/or immunity? We should interview resistance leaders, government officials, Janjaweed members, IDPs, refugees in Chad, and the Baggara. Additionally, welcoming international legal experts can offer clarification on human rights, humanitarian law, genocide, and accountability forums such as the ICC. Furthermore, we should request satellite imagery of North, South, and West Darfur, any registry of government arms movement, and NGO reports all while being cognizant of the political impact of our findings. A key testimony from former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell can unveil their independent investigation’s findings and what evidence may be useful as we proceed with our own. The Commission should seriously consider recommending the Security Council to establish a peacekeeping mission or other form of mediation, as a major concern is the political effects of our findings in Darfur. As a Commissioner, I will be dedicated to ensuring accurate information gathering, proactiveness, and a just finding. | |
| Committee: | COI-2005 |
| Topic: | Commission of Experts to Review the Prosecution of Serious Violations of Human Rights in Timor-Leste (then East Timor) in 1999 |
| Paper text: | |
| The 1999 United Nations Mission in East Timor (UNAMET)-led independence referendum
resulted in an overwhelming majority vote for East Timorese independence from
Indonesia. In the days proceeding the referendum, militia members, Indonesian soldiers
and high-ranking officials forcibly displaced over 250,000 people to camps, sought out and
slaughtered supporters of independence, and carried out massacres at places of refuge.
Indonesia has been tasked with prosecuting responsible individuals in its government yet
has failed to do so in the years since.
The mandate of the Commission regarding the prosecution of serious violations of human rights in Timor-Leste is to review the progress in judicial process in Indonesia, evaluate the extent to which accountability has been achieved, and recommend measures so that justice is delivered to the people of Timor-Leste. To fulfill this mandate, we should explore, among others, the following lines of inquiry: (1) Of the Special Panels for Serious Crimes in the Dili Court and Ad Hoc Human Rights Court trials, who were the accused, how many were convicted, and what were their sentences? (2) To what degree did the Courts adhere to the recommendations of earlier reports documenting human rights violations, and were there inconsistencies in the severity of charges indicted? (3) Was there any relationship between the rank of Indonesian Military (TNI) officials and their sentences? (4) Was there consistent failure on the part of the Prosecution in the trials of human rights cases from 1999-2005? We should take it upon ourselves to extensively review the documentation of trials already concluded in the Ad Hoc Human Rights Court and the KKP HAM report detailing the post-referendum violence. We may wish to interview prosecutors in the concluded cases, UNAMET and UN Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET) staff, President Gusmao, former President Habibe, and experts on human rights law and the judicial process of Indonesia. Our biggest obstacle will be the joint Indonesia and Timor-Leste Commission for Truth and Friendship (CTF), which may prefer to settle certain disagreements outside of domestic courts. I would propose mediation by making note of the CTF’s wishes in our report. | |
| Committee: | SC-B |
| Topic: | Threats to International Peace and Security |
| Paper text: | |
| We are deeply concerned by the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, marked by
Israeli and US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Switzerland maintains a strong
commitment to the principles of international law, the role of diplomacy, and the facilitation
of humanitarian aid.
Chapter VII and Article 51 of the UN Charter provide us with a strict framework: the use of force must be both necessary and proportional. Furthermore, additional Protocol I of the 4th Geneva Convention is clear; attacks should not be carried out on nuclear facilities if they could release radioactive material or cause civilian casualties. Additionally, we recall the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and urge Member States to adhere to all inspection protocol guidelines set forth by the treaty. We would specifically like to address the expiration of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and urge a new round of negotiations to be reached on the condition of Iran’s full compliance with IAEA provisions. Now, more than ever, diplomacy and unity are crucial. We emphasize the importance of a bilateral settlement while also acknowledging the key role this Council plays in facilitating peace. Ultimately, we stress the need for continued and enhanced humanitarian aid in the areas most greatly affected by the nuclear plant bombings in Iran, particularly Tehran, Natanz, and Isfahan and commit ourselves to facilitating that aid. We commend the work of organizations currently active in Iran, such as the World Health Organization, the World Food Program, the United Nations Children’s Fund, and the International Committee of the Red Cross. | |
| Committee: | SC-B |
| Topic: | The Situation in the Middle East, Including the Palestinian Question |
| Paper text: | |
| We applaud the diplomatic efforts of the governments of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Türkiye,
Egypt, and the United States on the implementation of the first phase of President Donald
J. Trump’s peace plan. While the presently acknowledged ceasefire is a commendable
development, millions of Palestinians remain internally displaced and without a reliable
source of aid, struggling for dignity under the auspices of a frail and vulnerable peace.
Without a subsisting ceasefire, the safe deliverance of humanitarian aid can be only
notionally established. It is thus imperative that we (1) monitor the degree to which the
ceasefire is upheld and, accordingly, (2) establish or reaffirm relevant mechanisms to
assist in maintaining peace and the distribution of humanitarian aid in Gaza.
Expanding on a 13 October 2025 statement by UN Secretary-General António Guterres’, one form of violence has ceased, but 24 months of abject violence has devastated Gaza’s population and critical infrastructure. In view of the disastrous humanitarian situation in Gaza, we reaffirm Security Council Resolution 2730 (2024), entreating all parties to abide by their obligations under international law, with particular concern for violence perpetrated against civilians and humanitarian personnel and the restriction of humanitarian aid. Under the direction of Secretary-General Guterres, the UN has hastened efforts to augment humanitarian relief operations, and we reiterate our commitment to the contribution of financial and medical assistance ad hoc. We maintain that the unilateral recognition of Palestinian statehood is not conducive to the necessary steps toward a two-state solution and a lasting peace in the Middle East. We stress that any proposed peace plans must be in accordance with international law for the purposes of enabling the safe delivery of urgently needed humanitarian aid in Gaza. Only after peaceful negotiations are established and conditions stabilized may we properly address the question of what is to be done next. Finally, we condemn in the strongest possible terms any acts not in compliance with the terms and conditions of the present ceasefire. | |
| Committee: | SC-B |
| Topic: | The Situation in the Sudans |
| Paper text: | |
| After centuries of conflict in Sudan, South Sudan, and the region of Abyei, Switzerland is
gravely concerned by the continued instability in the region. Switzerland remains a
neutral party in the conflict; however, we also recognize the importance of defining the
ownership and territory of the Abyei region. In addition, we are gravely concerned at
worsening situation in the region spilling over from the Sudanese and South Sudanese
border conflicts. We insist that essential humanitarian aid pathways be reopened and
protected to address the dire humanitarian situation in the region.
Switzerland has historically emphasized the necessity of unimpeded humanitarian aid, and we are deeply invested in continuing and furthering the aid currently being delivered to the Sudans. We are staunch supporters of humanitarian aid groups such as the UN refugee agency (UNHCR), the World Food Program (WFP), and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). We recall the importance of protecting human rights in accordance with international humanitarian and human rights law, particularly as they pertain to civilians, refugees, and aid workers. We are especially concerned with the potential for women, children, and marginalized peoples to be targeted during armed conflicts and call for further provisions to protect these highly vulnerable groups. We commit ourselves to establishing and maintaining negotiations along with facilitating general dialogue between the parties concerned. We affirm that the resolution to the conflict in Sudan must be Sudanese led and owned, centering around good faith discussions that address the root of the conflict. In South Sudan, we recognize the valuable work being conducted by the UN mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and reaffirms their goals of strengthening the country’s central government and protecting civilians from conflict. | |
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