The Swiss Stand: A Move That Amplifies the Need for Ethical Military Conduct

Switzerland, a nation renowned for its commitment to neutrality, recently took a stance that garnered attention in the global arena. Aligning itself with the European Union, the Swiss government imposed sanctions on Iran for its role in supplying Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, to Russia. These drones are operational in Ukraine, supporting the Russian military, particularly in the volatile Donbass region. This decision by Switzerland raises questions about neutrality, global military ethics, and the responsibility of nations in curbing technology proliferation.

The Dilemma of Neutrality

Switzerland’s foreign policy is a tale as old as its majestic Alps; the country prides itself on being a neutral mediator in conflicts, abstaining from military engagements and fostering diplomacy. This ethos, however, has been undergoing subtle shifts. The recent imposition of sanctions reveals that even Switzerland feels the weight of moral imperative in the face of blatant transgressions of international law. If neutrality is a Swiss tradition, then its recent actions are indicative of its growing emphasis on “active neutrality,” where the nation takes steps to enforce or support international norms and laws. For example, in 2022, Switzerland imposed sanctions on Belarus for its human rights violations and repression of civil society. Switzerland also supports peace-building processes around the world, such as in Colombia, Syria and Sudan. Switzerland’s neutrality is not a passive or isolationist stance, but rather a proactive and cooperative one that aims to promote peace and prosperity. It is based on the principles of the Hague Conventions of 1907, which define the rights and obligations of a neutral state. Switzerland’s neutrality policy is also enshrined in its constitution and recognized by the international community.

Sanctions: More Than Just a Policy

When you dig deep into the reasons behind Switzerland’s sanctions, it becomes evident that the move is far more than just a policy decision. It is, in essence, an ethical stance. Russia’s involvement in Ukraine has been a hot topic of international discourse, raising issues that range from territorial integrity to violations of humanitarian laws. The use of Iranian-made drones in airstrikes and reconnaissance missions further muddles the ethical waters. According to the Swiss government, Iran’s continued military support for Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine, which is contrary to international law, and the fact that Russia is using Iranian-made Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to support the military aggression, prompted the Federal Council to impose further sanctions on the Islamic Republic of Iran on 29 September 2023.

And it’s not just about Russia or Ukraine. The proliferation risk attached to Iran’s drone technology spreading to other actors like Syria, Hezbollah, and Hamas represents an impending threat that could destabilize the already tumultuous Middle East. This makes Switzerland’s sanctions not only timely but critically essential in setting a precedent for other nations to follow. It could serve as a deterrent against the casual spread of military technology that could be misused by rogue actors or terror groups. The new sanctions prohibit the sale, supply, export and transit of components used for the manufacture and production of UAVs, and also impose targeted financial and travel sanctions against persons and entities connected with support for Iran’s UAV programme. Switzerland has been aligning itself with the European Union’s sanctions listings regarding the supply of Iranian UAVs to Russia since autumn 2022, demonstrating its close partnership with the EU with regard to sanctions.

The Tech Quagmire: Unchecked Proliferation

Technology has always been a double-edged sword. In the military context, drones have revolutionized warfare, adding a layer of precision and minimizing collateral damage when used responsibly. However, when such technology falls into the hands of nations or groups with murky ethical considerations, the outcomes can be devastating. This concern is at the heart of Switzerland’s financial and travel sanctions against individuals and entities connected to Iran’s drone program, which has been supplying drones to Russia for use in its invasion of Ukraine. By halting the flow of critical components and software, Switzerland aims to stem the tide of drone technology proliferation, at least partially.

A Partnership Rooted in Values

Switzerland has joined the EU in imposing the eighth round of sanctions on Russia, showing its strong and lasting partnership with the EU on this issue. By aligning with the EU, Switzerland makes sure that its actions contribute to a wider and more effective strategy. The sanctions aim to pressure Russia to stop its aggression by freezing the assets of those involved, limiting the finances of some Russian officials, blocking some trade and investment with Crimea and other areas under Russian control, and banning all flights from Russia from entering Swiss airspace. Switzerland also cut back on the visa agreement with Russia and denied entry to some of Putin’s associates who have ties to Switzerland. Switzerland’s decision is a big change from its usual neutrality and a sign of its support for Ukraine and its people.

Conclusion: The Responsibility of Nations

Switzerland’s actions are a reminder that countries, irrespective of their historic stances, bear the responsibility to enforce international laws and ethical norms. While Switzerland has long valued its neutrality, the evolving geopolitical landscape demands a reevaluation of what neutrality means in the 21st century. Switzerland’s sanctions against Iran signify more than just a policy change; they echo a global cry for ethical military conduct and the responsible use of advanced technology in modern warfare.

In a world that is increasingly interconnected and complicated, sitting on the fence is not an option anymore, even for Switzerland. And if a nation known for its impartiality feels compelled to take action, it serves as a loud wake-up call for other countries to reevaluate their own policies and commitments to global stability and peace.