Switzerland – 3rd – Conflict-Affected Areas

2.2 Updating the measures contained in the NAP 2020–2023

Measure 5: Multi-stakeholder initiatives on business and human rights

The Federal Administration facilitates a deeper dialogue among stakeholders, including business associations and civil society, through panel discussions and discussion platforms. The aim of this initiative is to promote constructive collaboration through practical solutions designed to improve respect for human rights in business activities. Switzerland plays an active role in supporting various multi-stakeholder initiatives, including the cocoa, gold, textiles and coffee sectors, and in implementing the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights and the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers. These efforts, which supplement the new legislative measures, seek to maximise the positive impact of companies on the ground while promoting social and environmental sustainability.

Measure 7: Reduction in human rights risks associated with gold extraction and trading

Starting on 1 January 2022, Swiss-based companies must comply with due diligence obligations as well as with reporting obligations if they import and process minerals and metals from conflict-affected areas (see Article 964j ff. of the Code of Obligations, and the DDTrO). The Federal Administration informs the private sector of the applicable legal provisions.

The 2024-27 National Action Plan is supplemental to the 2020-23 NAP. The 2020-2023 NAP explicitly addresses this issue.

Additional Information about the 2020-23 NAP can be found here.