Conference in Zug on the topic ‘De-escalation in cyberspace: mediation and preventive diplomacy’

On 29 and 30 September 2026, a conference on the topic of ‘De-escalation in cyberspace: mediation and preventive diplomacy’ will take place in Zug. It is the final thematic conference organised as part of Switzerland's 2026 term as chair of the OSCE, ahead of the annual Ministerial Council meeting, which will take place on 3 and 4 December 2026 in Lugano.

Increasing digital interconnectivity, along with new technologies such as AI and advances in quantum computing, are transforming the international security landscape. Cyberattacks, espionage, sabotage and disinformation can rapidly undermine trust between states, foster inaccurate perceptions and heighten tensions – particularly when the perpetrators and consequences of an incident are unclear. Against this backdrop, high-level representatives from the spheres of politics, diplomacy and cybersecurity will discuss how stability and trust in cyberspace can be strengthened, and what role preventive diplomacy and mediation can play in countering escalation at an early stage and maintaining dialogue between states.

The conference builds on the priorities of Switzerland's 2026 OSCE chairpersonship, which are to promote inclusive multilateral diplomacy and to strengthen peace, security and stability. Through this work, Switzerland underscores that in the digital age, cyberdiplomacy is increasingly becoming an instrument of peace policy. It also demonstrates how preventive diplomacy can contribute to peace and international security. Switzerland is seizing the occasion of its OSCE chairpersonship to intertwine its experience in conflict prevention and mediation with its expertise in innovation and cybersecurity. It will leverage its term to promote a digital space that is secure, stable and used responsibly.

The focus here is also on mediation in cyberspace – known as cybermediation – as a new tool for diplomatic conflict prevention. Cybermediation uses digital technologies and online platforms to facilitate negotiations that geographical distance might otherwise prevent. The conference will also examine the role that non-state actors and new technologies can play in preventing and managing crises.