Switzerland selected to chair OSCE in 2026

Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Ian Borg, announced on December 30 that Switzerland has been selected to assume the chairmanship of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in 2026.

This decision follows a Ministerial Decision adopted by consensus during the final days of Malta’s Chairmanship, with the 57 OSCE participating States expressing their commitment to sustaining the vital work of the Organization amid ongoing geopolitical challenges, Caliber.Az reports citing the Organization.

“Today, we have demonstrated our confidence in the Organization and its ability to deliver on its mandate,” said Chair-in-Office Borg. “I congratulate Switzerland for showing strong leadership in stepping forward to assume the 2026 Chairpersonship. Switzerland’s acceptance of this role is a crucial step forward, and we look forward to continuing our close co-operation as Troika members as of the 1st of January 2025.”

Following the conclusion of the Ministerial Council, Malta remained focused on ensuring the OSCE’s continued functionality in these turbulent times. Borg emphasized that the selection of future Chairs was essential for maintaining the Organization’s resilience and continuity.

“At the outset of our Chairpersonship in January, we adopted the motto ‘Strengthening Resilience and Enhancing Security’ to underscore the imperative of safeguarding the OSCE’s ability to navigate challenges and reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of security in our region,” said Chair-in-Office Borg.

 “Today, Malta’s Chairpersonship is proud of its efforts to preserve the Organization’s functionality and advance pivotal decisions that reaffirm the OSCE’s position as a bastion of peace, dialogue, and stability.”

Swiss Federal Councilor and incoming Chair-in-Office of the OSCE for 2026, Ignazio Cassis, emphasized the enduring relevance of the OSCE: “The OSCE stands for security through cooperation and peaceful settlement of disputes. This Organization is more relevant than ever, and we have to keep it functional.”

Switzerland will succeed Finland at the helm of the OSCE in 2026. Borg expressed confidence in Switzerland’s leadership, stating, “This is a significant moment for the OSCE, and we are confident that Switzerland will lead with vision and resolve.”

The OSCE Chairpersonship is held for one year by an OSCE participating State, with its Foreign Minister serving as Chair-in-Office. The Chairpersonship co-ordinates decision-making and sets the OSCE's priorities during its tenure.

By Vafa Guliyeva