Protection of buildings
Security in the Parliament Building
The Parliament Building and the federal buildings in the centre of Bern represent the heart of Swiss democracy. This symbolic significance is part of the reason why rallies and events are regularly held outside these locations. One of fedpol’s key tasks is to protect the buildings and the people inside.
To this end, it continuously assesses the security and threat situation and arranges security measures as required. Based on its obligations under international law, fedpol is also responsible for protecting foreign representations in Switzerland. The relevant cantonal police forces apply the security measures on fedpol’s behalf.
More than 100,000 people visit the Parliament Building every year. The first people they encounter when entering this historic building are usually fedpol’s security officers, who are responsible for thorough and efficient access and baggage checks. Modern technology such as baggage X-ray machines and metal detectors is used for this process – similar to the devices seen at airport security. fedpol also ensures security, peace and order in the Parliament Building and intervenes if these are jeopardised or disrupted.
The fedpol security officers are even present during the Federal Assembly’s political sessions and major events, such as official visits by foreign heads of state, Swiss National Day and Bern’s Museum Night. They are responsible for taking immediate action if extraordinary events occur.
Foreign representations in Switzerland
Under international law, fedpol is required to protect embassies, consulates and ambassadors’ residences in Switzerland. In addition, numerous international organisations are based in Switzerland, resulting in a high number of accredited diplomats: 46,000 people in total, more than 40,000 of whom are located in Geneva.
To ensure that foreign representations are protected, fedpol continuously monitors and analyses the security situation, maintaining constant contact with federal and cantonal partner authorities. If any security measures need to be adjusted, the cantonal and city police forces implement the changes on fedpol’s behalf.