CIP Basic Strategy

Framework for the involved actors

The CIP Basic Strategy outlines the strategic goals as well as the relevant principles and describes the measures to be taken in the area of CIP. It serves all involved actors (Federal Authorities, Cantons and operators) as framework for their specific works in the field of CIP. The CIP Basic Strategy also defines four measures, which will have to be implemented accordingly.

Measure 1: Prioritizing critical infrastructures

In order to be able to use resources efficiently, critical infrastructures must be prioritized. On the one hand, individual critical infrastructure elements are weighted based on their sector; on the other hand, some are inventoried and documented (“CIP Inventory”).

Measure 2: Protection through comprehensive approaches

Critical infrastructures are protected through comprehensive concepts that include specifications as to protection goals, protective measures, and implementation plans. The actual protective measures are oriented towards a comprehensive risk spectrum and take into account various aspects of the entire risk management cycle. There are two levels.

• Critical infrastructure elements: A framework will be elaborated , which will serve as a solid basis for the elaboration of comprehensive approaches. The framework will be applicable to all elements of all the critical infrastructure sectors. It considers especially the compilation and analysis of threats, vulnerabilities, risks, interdependencies and existing protective measures. In addition, it also takes into account the inquiry for protection deficiencies as well as the elaboration of measures for the reduction of risks.
• Critical infrastructure sub-sectors: A framework will be elaborated, which will serve as basis for guaranteeing the continuous performance of critical infrastructures, respectively the rapid resumption of key activities in case of disruptions.

Measure 3: Establishing foundations

A number of problem areas, such as mutual dependencies and cascading effects in case of disruption, have not yet been sufficiently investigated. Additionally, comprehensive and concerted countermeasures have yet to be formulated. Therefore, basic research in the field of CIP is of great importance. In the area of basic research, close cooperation with various research institutes, such as Switzerland’s universities, is important. Another significant feature is the exchange with the international research community.

Measure 4: Fostering risk communication

Awareness of the significance of critical infrastructures and the possible implications of failures is crucial. Therefore, the operators of critical infrastructures, corporate actors, and representatives of the Federal Administration as well as the general public have to be sensitized to possible risks and threats in connection with critical infrastructures. Therefore, they have to be informed about rules of conduct and ways of protecting themselves. This is done in various ways including handbooks, fact sheets, presentations or on our dedicated website.