Switzerland Reinforces Commitment to Combating Terrorism with New Sanctions Ordinance
Bern, Switzerland – August 25, 2025 – The Swiss Federal Council today announced the publication of a significant new ordinance, the “Ordinance on Measures against persons, groups, businesses and organisations associated with ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida.” This comprehensive legislative update underscores Switzerland’s unwavering commitment to international cooperation and its proactive approach in the global fight against terrorism.
The newly enacted ordinance, which comes into effect today, consolidates and strengthens Switzerland’s existing measures against entities and individuals linked to the terrorist organizations ISIL (also known as Da’esh) and Al-Qaida. It serves as a crucial tool in implementing international sanctions regimes and ensuring Switzerland remains a responsible member of the global community in addressing the persistent threat posed by these extremist groups.
This updated ordinance reflects Switzerland’s dedication to upholding international law and contributing to global security efforts. By clearly defining the scope of prohibited activities and specifying measures that can be taken, the ordinance provides a robust legal framework for the Federal Council and relevant authorities to act decisively against those who support or are associated with these designated terrorist organizations.
Key aspects of the ordinance are expected to include, but not be limited to:
- Asset Freezes: Ensuring that any assets, financial resources, or economic resources belonging to or controlled by designated individuals, groups, businesses, and organizations are frozen. This measure aims to disrupt their ability to fund their illicit activities and operations.
- Prohibitions on Transactions: Preventing any direct or indirect provision of financial or other resources to these designated entities. This includes a comprehensive ban on engaging in any transactions that could benefit or support their operations.
- Travel Bans: Reinforcing existing measures to prevent designated individuals from entering or transiting through Swiss territory, thereby hindering their movement and ability to plan or carry out attacks.
- Alignment with International Standards: The ordinance is meticulously drafted to align with the sanctions lists and resolutions issued by the United Nations Security Council and other relevant international bodies. This ensures Switzerland’s sanctions regime is consistent with global efforts.
The Federal Council’s decision to issue this ordinance demonstrates a proactive and comprehensive approach to combating terrorism. It acknowledges the evolving nature of terrorist threats and the need for up-to-date legal instruments to effectively counter them. By implementing these stringent measures, Switzerland aims to contribute to the dismantling of terrorist networks, the prevention of attacks, and the protection of its citizens and the international community.
The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) and the Federal Department of Finance (FDF), in collaboration with other relevant federal departments, will be responsible for the implementation and enforcement of the ordinance. Authorities will work diligently to ensure compliance and to contribute to a safer and more secure global environment.
Switzerland’s commitment to peace and security is a cornerstone of its foreign policy. This new ordinance is a clear manifestation of that commitment, reinforcing its role as a reliable partner in the international effort to eradicate terrorism.
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Swiss Confederation published ‘Sanctions: Ordinance on Measures against persons, groups, businesses and organisations associated with ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida’ at 2025-08-25 00:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.