Monica Cheru-Managing Editor
Hong Kong — Switzerland has officially endorsed the International Organization for Mediation, reinforcing the institution’s credibility with the early and strategic show of support.
Switzerland is a respected global leader in peacebuilding.
Landmark International Mediation Body Launched in ...
Speaking at the signing event held in Hong Kong today, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland Ignazio Cassis announced that Switzerland, which was present as a neutral observer state, is ready to work with partners in promoting world peace.
“At a time when the force of war threatens to eclipse the force of law, Switzerland stands with credible organizations working for peace,” said Cassis.
He cited the country’s long-standing experience in international mediation and commitment to peaceful dispute resolution and offered some insight into Switzerland’s strategies as a case study for IOMed, highlighting its traditions of neutrality, pragmatism, and quiet diplomacy.
He said that trust is earned through discretion, consistency, and a refusal to seek the limelight.
Switzerland’s decision to align with IOMed—even in an observer capacity—carries both strategic weight and symbolic power in the organization whose 32 founding members all come from the global south.
Zimbabwe Confident in IOMed’s Success, Calls It...
Switzerland’s reputation as a trusted mediator and neutral bridge-builder between hostile states lends IOMed immediate credibility within the international diplomatic community.
Switzerland’s involvement could encourage greater global confidence in the organization, particularly among countries that are cautious about joining blocs perceived as politically aligned with either Western or Eastern power centers.
“Switzerland may not be a superpower,” the Cassis remarked, “but it is a trustworthy power.”
Switzerland’s presence in IOMed follows its well-known tradition of quiet diplomacy—a model that has enabled it to host sensitive negotiations, including recent trade discussions between China and the United States, even amid rising global tensions.
The country has served as a neutral intermediary between states lacking formal diplomatic ties, such as Iran and the United States and Russia and Georgia.
Cassis said currently, Switzerland is engaged in peace processes in over 30 countries, deploying a combination of mediation, facilitation, and technical support, often in collaboration with international bodies, a class that IOMed now belongs to.
Cassis emphasized that sustainable peace cannot be imposed—it must be facilitated, nurtured, and supported through inclusive platforms like IOMed.
Zim Now WriterThe government has conceded to demands by striking university lecturers following a wave of protests over poor remuneration and working conditions.Lecturers from the University of Zimb..
ZimbabweCommissioner Sikhulekile NdlovuMunyaradzi Blessing Doma- Zim Now ReporterWomen and girls need the necessary support in order to live empowered and healthy lives for them to reach their full potentia..
ZimbabweOscar J Jeke- Zim Now ReporterUnki Platinum Mine, operated by Anglo American Platinum (Amplats), saw a 15% decline in output in the first quarter of 2025, producing 53 600 ounces.The dip was primari..
Zimbabwe
Leave Comments