Swiss Neutrality

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that, in 1291, a new nation-state the Confederation of Switzerland declared its independence and established what is now known as a neutral state-of-being or neutrality. The author points out that Swiss neutrality is distinguished by three characteristics; it is self-imposed, permanent and armed. The paper concludes that this neutrality has paid off significantly for Switzerland: (1) Business and labor prospects are steadily increasing on par and in many cases exceeding the United States, the United Kingdom and Japan, (2) the government budgets its largest percentage toward education resulting in world-renowned opportunities, (3) the economy and standard of living are among the best in the world, (4) tourism is demonstrating a major increase and (5) hundreds of international organizations such as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the United Nations Organization have found a safe and convenient headquarters.

From the Paper:

"This is the basic code by which Switzerland proudly abides, as per the Confederation's code of international conduct. It was not until the Congress of Vienna in 1815 that Switzerland was officially established as a federation and guaranteed its independence and permanent neutrality (though the intention of independence and neutrality was informally announced during the month of August, in the year 1291). For the most part, the doctrine of neutrality concerns the right of any neutral state to be left undisturbed during conflicts and their obligations of impartiality and non-participation. The law of neutrality is applicable only in conflicts between states, and not in purely internal conflicts (e.g. civil wars). Neutrality policy is flexible enough for adaptation, taking into account the foreign and security policy situation of the day."

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