OSCE Chair conference in Switzerland highlights preventive diplomacy and mediation to reduce risks of escalation in cyberspace

ZUG, 29 September 2026 – Preventing cyber incidents from escalating into international crises and conflicts requires stronger dialogue, greater transparency and effective channels of communication between States. This was a central message of the Swiss OSCE Chairpersonship conference on “De-escalation in cyberspace: mediation and preventive diplomacy”, held today in Zug.

The conference brought together representatives of OSCE participating States, experts, academics and private sector representatives to examine how preventive diplomacy and mediation can help address cyber-related tensions at an early stage. Discussions focused in particular on the role of the OSCE’s cybersecurity confidence-building measures (CBMs), cyber mediation, and the role of new technologies and non-state actors in preventing and managing cyber crises.

“The challenge is not only technological. It is diplomatic. And ultimately, it is human,” recalled OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis. “Technology can help us detect threats. AI can help us analyze them. But neither can decide when to communicate rather than retaliate, when to de-escalate rather than escalate. That remains our responsibility. And this is where the OSCE matters.”

Participants discussed the importance of maintaining channels of communication, particularly when the attribution, intent or potential consequences of a cyber incident remain unclear. They also explored how cyber mediation can help preserve dialogue, clarify misunderstandings and build confidence between States during periods of heightened tension, including through the responsible use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

“Security policy must ensure that we are able to defend ourselves. Diplomacy must help ensure that, even under pressure, alternatives remain available,” stated Federal Councillor Martin Pfister, Head of the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport. “We cannot prevent every cyber incident. But we can work together to prevent cyber incidents from becoming wider crises.”

“The value of confidence-building is greatest when confidence and trust are in short supply. What matters is having the relationships, channels and practical tools to prevent cyber incidents from becoming wider crises. That is where the OSCE can make a real difference. And that is why confidence-building, with the support of the OSCE, remains essential to preventing escalation in cyberspace,” said Hatun Demirer, Director of the Office of the OSCE Secretary General.

Bringing together political, diplomatic, technical and academic perspectives, the conference highlighted the growing role of cyber diplomacy as an instrument of peace and international security. The conference was the fourth and final thematic conference of Switzerland’s 2026 OSCE Chairpersonship, following conferences in St. Gallen, Geneva and Bern. On 3-4 December, Switzerland will host the annual OSCE Ministerial Council meeting in Lugano.