Introduction
On 13 December 2024, the Federal Council adopted the updated Digital Switzerland Strategy for 2025, highlighting its current priorities and selecting new focus themes. This annual strategy aims to keep Switzerland at the forefront of digital transformation, ensuring the country’s ongoing leadership in innovation and competitiveness.
Key Objectives of the Digital Switzerland Strategy
The Digital Switzerland Strategy serves as a crucial tool for setting priorities in the digital transformation landscape. It guides public and private stakeholders across the nation, emphasizing the importance of adapting to technological advancements. Each year, the Federal Council adopts the strategy with specific focus themes, and for 2025, the primary focus is on Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Focus Themes for 2025
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Legal Framework and Implementation
The Federal Council has prioritized the regulation and use of AI within the Federal Administration. This approach aims to balance the protection of basic rights, democracy, and the rule of law with the promotion of Switzerland’s innovation and competitiveness. Efforts are being made to ensure legal certainty and to enhance the utilization of AI in government operations.
- Strengthening Information Security and Cybersecurity
To safeguard Switzerland and its population, the strategy emphasizes the importance of strengthening information security. Key measures include raising awareness, implementing protective strategies in everyday life, and ensuring the Federal Administration’s readiness to handle emergencies. These initiatives will also support cantonal and communal administrations, establishing robust structures for information and cybersecurity.
- Promoting Open Source Software (OSS) in the Federal Administration
The Federal Administration is committed to actively publishing and promoting Open Source Software (OSS) to enhance transparency, security, and innovation in IT systems. This initiative aims to bolster the digital sovereignty of the Administration while fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration with national and international OSS communities. Switzerland aspires to take a pioneering role in the global open source movement.
Collaborative Efforts and Advisory Boards
For each focus theme, the Confederation organizes advisory board meetings involving representatives from business, science, politics, authorities, and civil society. These collaborative sessions aim to align diverse perspectives and develop comprehensive measures to achieve the strategy’s objectives.
Conclusion
The updated Digital Switzerland Strategy for 2025 demonstrates Switzerland’s proactive approach to digital transformation. By focusing on AI governance, cybersecurity, and the promotion of open source software, the strategy aims to create a balanced and secure digital environment. This approach not only fosters innovation but also ensures the protection of fundamental rights and the rule of law. As Switzerland continues to adapt to technological advancements, the Digital Switzerland Strategy will play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s digital future, reinforcing its position as a global leader in digital innovation and governance