Mi., Nov. 29th 2023
As part of the security measures surrounding the second global refugee forum in Geneva, the Federal Council has decided to temporarily restrict airspace. In addition, the army will support the civilian authorities with the security measures.
The Federal Department of Defense, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) announced on Wednesday that these measures were necessary as this was a high-level international meeting. Switzerland is obliged to guarantee the safety of guests who are protected under international law.
The Global Refugee Forum organized by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees will take place in Geneva from 13 to 15 December. Small aircraft such as sports planes and helicopters will not be allowed to fly over the Place des Nations during and one day before and after the meeting. Commercial flights to and from Geneva International Airport will not be affected.
The Federal Council also approved a subsidiary deployment of up to 700 members of the armed forces as part of an assistance service. The army will support the Geneva cantonal police with personal protection, among other things. According to the DDPS, the deployment of the army will not result in any additional expenditure for the Confederation.
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