Swiss Space Policy
As a space nation with a long tradition and a founding member of the ESA, Switzerland is a hotspot for space research and cutting-edge technology. Its space policy focuses on excellence, innovation and international cooperation, and it pursues its goals with openness, reliability and quality. Switzerland is not only a competitive partner, but also actively shapes European and international space activities and is committed to innovation, security and sustainability.
Swiss Space policy
Switzerland’s endeavours in space will:
- contribute to the quality of life and security of citizens by making full use of the potential inherent in space activities;
- push the frontiers of science and technology by promoting excellence and innovation, which will give Swiss players a competitive edge;
- enable future generations to benefit fully from the opportunities provided by space activities;
- shape European and international space activities as well as global space governance together with its partners, and pursue its space policy objectives in a way that is open, reliable and in highest quality.
The ambitious goals of the ‘Space Policy 2023’ adopted by the Federal Council on 19 April 2023 reflect the rapid evolution and growing importance of space. Satellite-based technologies are indispensable today: they not only enable communication, navigation and weather forecasting, but also help to analyse climate change, drive digitalisation and increase our security.
Space has become more accessible in recent years, with more players engaging in space activities. Sustainability in space is also a growing concern. At the same time, geopolitical tensions are posing growing challenges. Security and defence are becoming more important.
Space Policy 2023 defines the strategic priorities and areas of action for Switzerland. Several departments are responsible for its implementation.
Cooperation with ESA and other international organisations
Switzerland is a founding member of the European Space Agency (ESA) and participates in almost all of its programmes. The Swiss delegation to ESA represents national interests and plays an active role in shaping ESA programmes. Switzerland's contribution to ESA enables Swiss universities and industrial companies to participate in international space missions and also to play a leading role in them.
Switzerland is also involved in the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) and the EU's satellite navigation programme. At the multilateral level, it is active in bodies of the United Nations (UN), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the EU/ESA Space Council.
Promotion of national activities in space
National activities in space strengthen Switzerland's position as an attractive hub for research and innovation. National measures provide support in particular to institutions that collaborate with ESA and lay a solid foundation for participation in future European programmes. This enables Swiss technologies and scientific instruments to be used successfully in space missions.
Financing of space-related projects (german)
Interdepartmental Coordination Committee for Space Affairs (IKAR)
The development and implementation of Swiss space policy requires cooperation between various departments and federal offices. The Interdepartmental Coordination Committee for Space Affairs (IKAR) was set up by the Federal Council and ensures efficient coordination. It is chaired by SERI, which also provides the secretariat.
Federal Commission for Space Affairs
The Federal Commission for Space Affairs (CFAS) is an extraparliamentary commission. It advises the Federal Council on space-related issues, offering an interdisciplinary, practical and forward-looking perspective on the Swiss space policy.