© ESA
Ambition
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.
Together with its partners, Switzerland will shape European and international space activities as well as global space governance, and pursue its space policy objectives in a way that is open, reliable and in highest quality.
2023 Space Policy
On 19 April 2023, the Federal Council adopted the 2023 Space Policy. With this Policy, it is taking into account the rapid developments and increasing importance of space: satellite-based applications have become an indispensable part of everyday life. Not only do they provide essential services in communication, navigation and weather forecasting, they also help us better understand climate change, promote digitalisation and improve security. Space has become more accessible in recent years, with more players engaging in space activities in Switzerland and abroad. Unilateralism and geopolitical tension have been increasing, and with them the importance of security and defence. Sustainability in space is also a growing concern. An external evaluation of the 2008 Space Policy and a consultation with key stakeholders provided important input for the new Space Policy.
In its 2023 Space Policy, the Federal Council has defined strategic priorities and corresponding areas of activity. Several departments are now charged with implementing the Policy; they will report to the Federal Council on their progress by end of June 2027.
Implementation and the role of SERI
Switzerland protects its space policy interests by working with international partners in a targeted way. For SERI, selective participation in programmes of the European Space Agency (ESA) and in other European and international space activities is particularly important. With its activities at national level, Switzerland supports Swiss-based, ESA-associated institutions, helps position the Swiss space ecosystem well for future calls for tenders by institutional programmes in Europe, and contributes to the operational phase of Swiss scientific instruments that are used in space missions.
The Federal Council is responsible for Switzerland’s space policy. It takes into account the recommendations of the Federal Commission for Space Affairs. SERI’s Space Division (the Swiss Space Office) is the Confederation’s centre of competence for national and international space affairs, and is charged with promoting and coordinating Switzerland’s activities in the exploration and use of outer space. As several departments and federal offices are involved in shaping and implementing Swiss space policy, efficient cooperation and coordination is necessary. This is carried out on behalf of the Federal Council by the Interdepartmental Coordination Committee for Space Affairs (IKAR). The committee is chaired by SERI’s Space Division, which also serves as the IKAR secretariat.
Further information
Documentation
Media
Federal Council adopts 2023 Space Policy
Update of Swiss space policy and development of a national legal framework for space activities