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Report·Sicherheit und Verteidigung·Document finding
Business 26.4178: improve wildfire response through cooperation
The risk of wildfires is increasing throughout Switzerland as a result of climate change. In the period 2000–2023, there were an average of 118 wildfires per year. The wildfire on Monte Gambarogno (TI) in 2022 alone caused around CHF 1.8 million in firefighting costs. In summer 2026, several neighbouring countries battled massive wildfires, which were ultimately brought under control also thanks to support from abroad under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. Switzerland is still not a full member of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. In addition, on 5 June 2026 the Federal Council decided to continue not participating in the Copernicus research programme, although Copernicus provides key data for climate monitoring, heatwave early warning and disaster mapping through the Climate Change Service (C3S) and the Emergency Management Service (CEMS). Against this background, the Federal Council is requested to answer the following questions: To what extent could Switzerland count on support through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism for wildfires in Switzerland, given that Switzerland has not so far been a member, as required by the adopted Motion 22.3904 Matter? To what extent was it ensured that Switzerland has access, in an extraordinary case, to firefighting aircraft or additional helicopters from elsewhere in Europe, as provided for by Measure 8 of the report in fulfilment of Postulate 19.3715? Has the Federal Council examined cooperation with neighbouring states in order to participate in the procurement of an A400M transport aircraft with a firefighting option and for aid missions abroad? What opportunities does the Federal Council see for stronger bilateral cooperation with our neighbouring countries in the area of wildfires, but also in civil protection more generally, as long as Switzerland cannot participate in the EU Civil Protection Mechanism? How does the Federal Council intend to ensure access to valuable information from Copernicus in the areas of climate change and forecasting heatwaves as well as in natural disasters (wildfires, flooding)? What lessons does the Federal Council draw from the fires in France, Spain and Italy for Switzerland with regard to prevention, managing wildfires and forest regeneration, and to what extent is knowledge and experience exchanged with authorities and fire services from neighbouring countries?