Media advisory
OSCE Chairpersonship conference in Zug to focus on de-escalation in cyberspace
- Date:
- Place:
- VIENNA/BERN
- Source:
- OSCE Chairpersonship
VIENNA/BERN, 22 September 2026 – The Swiss OSCE Chairpersonship will convene its conference on “De-escalation in Cyberspace: Mediation and Preventive Diplomacy” in Zug on 29-30 September 2026. It will bring together participating States, experts, academics and private sector representatives to discuss ways to reduce tensions and prevent the escalation of cyber incidents.
The conference is the last of four thematic conferences organized by the Swiss OSCE Chairpersonship this year and will focus on the role of preventive diplomacy and mediation in addressing risks of escalation in cyberspace. Participants will discuss the development and implementation of the OSCE’s cybersecurity confidence-building measures (CBMs), including their role in strengthening transparency, communication and trust among participating States.
The participants will also discuss the potential of cyber mediation as an emerging tool for managing tensions and preventing escalation. They will explore practical approaches, challenges and the role of digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, in supporting mediation efforts. The discussions will further address the contribution of the private sector, technical communities, academia and civil society to preventing and managing cyber crises.
Drawing on Switzerland’s long-standing experience in conflict prevention and mediation, as well as its expertise in cybersecurity and new technologies, the conference underscores the role of cyber diplomacy as an instrument of international peace and security and Switzerland’s commitment to an open, safe and peaceful cyberspace and responsible State behavior.
Media representatives are invited to the opening of the conference, which will feature addresses by Swiss Federal Councillor Martin Pfister, Head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport and Director of the Swiss National Cyber Security Centre Florian Schütz. OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, will deliver concluding remarks at the end of the event.
Media representatives are required to obtain accreditation in advance. Interested journalists are invited to register no later than Friday, 25 September 2026, at 14:00 (CEST) via the following link.
The Media Corner provides practical information on the venue, programme, accreditation, photos and useful links.
Links