Torture prevention has long been a priority of Switzerland

Warsaw, 05.10.2026 — Opening remarks by FDFA State Secretary Alexandre Fasel at the OSCE Warsaw Human Dimension Conference. The speech was given in English. Check against delivery.

I am honoured to be with you today and to speak on behalf of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Ignazio Cassis, who will address the participants later today via video message.

I would like to thank the Polish Authority for welcoming and hosting us again.

Today’s rapidly changing security environment is having a profound impact on human rights and democracy across the OSCE region.

Russia’s war against Ukraine is causing grave violations of human rights and eroding the principles and commitments on which our common security is built.

Democratic institutions and the rule of law are facing increasing challenges.

Civic space is narrowing, journalists, human rights defenders and other civil society actors face increasing intimidation and restrictions. Polarisation, disinformation and rapidly evolving technologies are further testing the resilience of our democratic societies.

Switzerland has been responding to these developments with a clear message: democratic resilience must be strengthened, fundamental freedoms protected, and human rights commitments effectively implemented.

This response is also at the heart of the OSCE’s concept of comprehensive security.

Let us remind ourselves that the human dimension of security is not simply an added layer. It is foundational. Without respect for human dignity, accountable institutions and meaningful participation, there can be no lasting security.

This principle has guided one of Switzerland’s priorities for its 2026 OSCE Chairpersonship: strengthening democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights.

Throughout this year, we have worked consistently to translate this into concrete action.