This October, Switzerland assumes the presidency of the UN Security Council for the second time during its 2023–2024 term. Amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine, Sudan, and numerous other contexts, the Swiss presidency is taking place during a time marked by heightened geopolitical tension. October is traditionally a very busy month due to scheduled meetings involving regions worldwide. Several important mandate renewals are also taking place during this period. Switzerland places great emphasis on effectively fulfilling the primary role of the council presidency. This involves ensuring the smooth conduct of the council's business, enabling it to make decisions and fulfil its mandate to maintain international peace and security.

Switzerland has planned two flagship events for its month-long presidency. On 21 October, the head of the FDFA, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, will chair a Security Council meeting on the impact of current and future scientific and technological developments on peace and security. The meeting will explore the opportunities and risks of these developments, and examine what actions the Security Council deems necessary to fulfil its mandate, particularly regarding the prevention of conflicts. On 24 October, the Security Council will address the topic of 'Women, Peace and Security' during its annual open debate, which will be chaired by Ms Amherd. The focus will be on the role of women in peace processes. While women remain clearly underrepresented in peace negotiations worldwide, studies demonstrate that their inclusion is conducive to a lasting implementation of peace agreements.

Switzerland's presidency offers an opportunity to highlight its thematic priorities: building sustainable peace, protecting civilians, addressing climate security, and enhancing the Security Council's effectiveness, while also giving new momentum to the council.

In October, the UN Security Council will, under Swiss presidency, host the Peace and Security Council of the African Union. The two councils will discuss cooperation on peacekeeping operations in the context of climate security and the role of young people in peace work.

On 14 October, Switzerland will inaugurate an exhibition entitled 'Deepfake and You' at the United Nations headquarters in New York. The exhibition was developed together with EPFL (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The manipulation of images, as well as disinformation, can have serious political, social and humanitarian consequences. This exhibition aims to raise awareness of these risks and suggest potential solutions.

The members of the Security Council assume the presidency on a monthly rotational basis, according to the alphabetical order of the member states' English names. The country holding the presidency chairs the meetings and, when necessary, represents the Security Council externally and before other UN bodies such as the UN General Assembly, the UN Secretary-General or the Economic and Social Council.

Second Swiss presidency of the UN Security Council