New strategy to fight crime

Crime is a reflection of society: networked, mobile, global. Criminals know no borders. They use modern technologies and operate in networks. This presents the police with ever new challenges. The response must be global and multidimensional and always based on cooperation and information exchange. The Strategy of the Confederation is based on the three pillars of prevention, repression and cooperation and is guided by three guiding principles:

• First, it is about analysis-based policing (intelligence-led policing): This guiding principle focuses on the targeted triage, evaluation and analysis of information. The aim is to ensure that the right information reaches the right places in a timely manner and can be processed further.
• Furthermore, private and non-police partners (companies, NGOs, universities, etc.) should be increasingly involved: In this way, synergies can be used and the impact of measures can be strengthened (public-private partnership). One example is cooperation with the financial sector to combat money laundering, where banks also have an interest in prevention for reputational reasons.
• Ultimately, it is a matter of increasingly following the financial flows (follow the money): If the trail of criminally acquired funds leads back to the perpetrators, their networks can be dismantled. For Switzerland in particular, as one of the world's most important financial centers, this guiding principle is of central importance.

The priority offense areas were defined on the basis of the threat situation in Switzerland. The threat of terrorism remains elevated. In addition to jihadist-motivated terrorism, there is also the danger of a terrorist attack from the violent extremist milieu. The recent attacks in Europe and around the world, such as in Christchurch, are examples of this. Organized crime is the second priority crime area. The Italian mafia, for example, has a large presence in Switzerland. It poses a considerable threat. Finally, transnational crime, which falls within the competence of the cantonal law enforcement agencies, is another priority area. Here, Fedpol ensures coordination and support for the cantons. The aim is to step up the fight against internationally organized crime such as drug trafficking, human trafficking or property crimes committed by digital means.

With the Crime Prevention Strategy 2020-2023, the FDJP defines the priorities of police investigations at the federal level, i.e. in particular of fedpol as the federal police. The strategy is in line with that of the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland (BA), for which fedpol investigates cases that fall under federal jurisdiction. It is also in agreement with the Conference of Cantonal Police Commanders (KKPKS) and consolidated with federal partners.

Press release Federal Council / FDJP