New dangers
Disasters, emergencies, terrorist attacks: these are the main hazards Switzerland faces today. Due to our modern and high-tech society, they can cause even greater damage than before. Their likelihood of occurrence is nevertheless high and may appear without any or only a brief prior warning period.
New system
The new joint civil protection system is the ideal response to current security challenges. It enables a comprehensive protection of the population, its vital resources and cultural property. The joint system brings together the combined forces of five partner organisations. The 'Civil Protection Concept' was adopted by the federal council (Swiss government) on 17 October 2001. The corresponding law on civil protection is based on this concept, which outlines the mission and structure of civil protection in Switzerland.