Swiss Foreign Minister Urges OSCE to Coordinate on Emerging Technologies.

Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis has called on member states of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe to develop a common and proactive approach toward emerging technologies.

Speaking at a two-day OSCE conference in Geneva, Cassis emphasized the importance of anticipating scientific and technological developments before they create political, social, or security challenges.

“If no one controls them, they will control us,” Cassis warned while referring to rapidly advancing technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing.

The Swiss foreign minister stressed that the greatest danger today is not technological innovation itself, but political delays in responding to technological change.

According to Cassis, if regulations fail to keep pace with innovation, societies may face mistrust, instability, misjudgements, and rising tensions.

He noted that new technologies already influence all major dimensions of the OSCE, including military security, economic competition, civil liberties, and social cohesion.

Conference participants discussed how artificial intelligence, quantum computers, and advanced digital systems could reshape security and cooperation across Europe.

Delegates also explored how technology could help countries manage scarce resources more effectively and support international collaboration.

Switzerland is seeking to strengthen international cooperation on technology governance following initiatives introduced at the United Nations Security Council during Switzerland’s chairmanship in 2024.

Cassis also highlighted the role of a Geneva-based foundation that has worked for years on identifying technological risks and opportunities before they create wider social problems.

He clarified that the goal is not to regulate every technological development, but rather to focus on the most urgent and high-impact challenges facing societies today.

The conference reflects growing international concern over the global impact of artificial intelligence, cyber threats, digital warfare, and emerging technologies on democracy and security.