Why is Switzerland neutral?
Swiss neutrality was formally recognised by the international community in 1815, at the Congress of Vienna. Switzerland is in neither the EU nor NATO, and it joined the UN only in 2002, after a popular vote.
Ep. 16 · Ding or Clonk? · 46 seconds. Watch
The real rule
Why the Swiss laugh, and what it means if you're new here.
Neutrality is part of how the Swiss see themselves, and it dates back to its recognition at the Congress of Vienna in 1815. Switzerland stays out of the EU and NATO, though it joined the UN in 2002 after a popular vote. As a newcomer, you will meet the same instinct in daily life: people avoid taking sides out loud. Except about food.
Blüemli's verdict: Ding. Since 1815. Swiss neutrality was recognised at the Congress of Vienna, 1815.
Be like Ueli. Stay neutral. Except about the Rösti.
Learn more: Swiss history in 23 minutes
The rule, explained
Neutrality is part of the Swiss self-image, and it has a date. The Federal Department of Foreign Affairs writes that Swiss neutrality was only formally recognised by the international community in 1815, at the Congress of Vienna. Today Switzerland is one of the few countries in Europe that belongs neither to the European Union nor to NATO. It did join the United Nations, after a popular vote on 3 March 2002. At the dinner table, neutrality has its limits. Ask Ueli about the Rösti.
Sources: aboutswitzerland.eda.admin.ch, Neutrality; FDFA, NATO: Partnership for Peace; Swiss mission in Geneva, 20 years of UN membership
Questions people ask
When did Switzerland become neutral?
Its neutrality was formally recognised in 1815, at the Congress of Vienna (FDFA).
Is Switzerland in NATO or the EU?
Neither. It joined the UN in 2002, after a popular vote.
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