On 6 May 2026, Martin Pfister, Federal Councillor and Head of the Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport, gave a lecture at the University of Lausanne. Watch the video of the event.
Security on the European continent has deteriorated significantly since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. US policy towards Europe has become more uncertain. The cyber threat, as well as those posed by drones and long-range missiles, has become critical. Disinformation is rife. The European Union is developing its common defence policy. It is strengthening its strategic autonomy. The rearmament of the continent has accelerated. In this context, how can Switzerland’s security be ensured? What interests does it have in collaborating with its European neighbours? To what extent does its policy of neutrality protect it? How can it be prevented from becoming a “security gap” at the heart of the continent?
To answer these questions, the Jean Monnet Foundation for Europe, in collaboration with the University of Lausanne, hosted Federal Councillor and Head of the Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport, Martin Pfister.
The lecture took place at Unil-Amphimax. Following an opening address in French, Martin Pfister engaged in a discussion with Roger de Weck in German before answering questions from the large audience.
You can find the transcript of his speech (in French) here and the video of the event below. The discussion with Roger de Weck and the audience is in German, but YouTube allows you to add English subtitles.
With the support of the Loterie Romande
