Switzerland participated in two resolutions dealing with the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on gender equality, non-discrimination and the fight against disinformation. The aim is to curb the AI-accelerated spread of deepfakes and content that constitutes online harassment. In the development of these technologies, it must be ensured that the right to privacy and the principle of non-discrimination in the service sector, for example in human resources or housing allocation, are upheld.
Transitional justice
Transitional justice, a key focus of Switzerland in the field of human rights, is based on four pillars: truth-seeking, combating impunity, reparation and the guarantee of non-recurrence. At the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council, Switzerland led a group of countries that contributed to the adoption of two resolutions on transitional justice. Coming to terms with the past makes it possible to defuse tensions and prevent a resurgence of violence. After a war, transitional justice is a fundamental instrument for ensuring the sustainability of peace. In such processes, new technologies can make an important contribution, particularly in documenting crimes and searching for missing persons.
Geographical contexts
In the context of discussions on specific geographical contexts, Switzerland supported the extension of the mandate of the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Russia and once again condemned the indiscriminate drone attacks on the civilian population.
It also spoke out against the systematic use of sexual violence as a method of torture against civilians and prisoners of war in Ukraine. Switzerland also supported the extension of the mandate of the UN Commission of Inquiry on the human rights and security situation in Sudan.
In the context of the reform of the UN architecture for human rights, Switzerland is working towards harmonising the working methods of the treaty bodies in the interest of greater economy and efficiency. It was able to win 86 States to its cause.