Background

Neutrality Brings Stability

Switzerland is an extremely stable country, not prone to political upheaval or unrest. Its famous neutrality and civilian Swiss Armed Forces has helped maintain this political security. Crime is extremely rare and terrorism virtually nonexistent.

Though Switzerland has no standing army, every able-bodied male between the ages of 19 and 31 must serve in the armed forces or civilian service. In case of attack from hostile countries, the army can be called up instantly. Interestingly, in a country where just about every household has a gun, there is very little violence involving guns.

The federal departments responsible for national and local security, respectively, are the Federal Department of Defence Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) and the Federal Department of Justice and Police (FDJP). The Federal Office for the Environment’s (FOEN) Hazard Prevention Division is responsible for natural disaster management.