Elected to the UN Security Council
Switzerland gets brilliant result in New York!
For the first time in its history, Switzerland is seeking a seat on the UN Security Council. Blick reports live from the election in New York.
Published: 06/09/2022 at 16:06
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Updated 6/9/2022 at 6:22 p.m
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When Russia quarrels with the USA or China with Great Britain, Switzerland will be at the table in the future. Today, Thursday, she is standing for election to the UN Security Council. Switzerland is running as a non-permanent member of the 15-strong body. A body that has a lot of power because the resolutions are binding for all 193 UN countries. But also one that blocks itself with great regularity, because the permanent members can torpedo decisions with their veto power.
Nevertheless, Switzerland hopes to be able to act as a mediator and, with better access, to position itself better. The candidature is therefore also under the slogan “A Plus for Peace” – a plus for peace, an allusion to the Swiss cross. “The seat gives Switzerland credibility because it can show what it is doing for peace and stability,” said Federal President Ignazio Cassis (61) before the vote in New York.
Choice is only a matter of form
In order for Switzerland to be elected, two-thirds of the UN General Assembly must give their blessing. Even if the election is secret, it is already clear that the Russian vote will probably not be there: Because Switzerland has adopted the EU’s sanctions against Russia, it is classified as an “enemy state”.
Nevertheless, the choice will only be a matter of form. Because only five countries are running for the five vacant seats. For the Western Europe region, these are Switzerland and Malta, plus Ecuador, Japan and Mozambique.
The UN General Assembly begins at 4 p.m., and the elections are expected to begin around 5:30 p.m. Blick answers the most important questions – and will report live from the vote.
