Alarm to the Swiss population: strengthening of digital channels

(Keystone-ATS) Information, warning and transmission of the alarm to the population are part of the essential tasks of protecting the population. New technologies and the evolution of the population’s behavior in terms of media use call into question the future of certain systems and their effectiveness. But this development also brings new tools, indicates the government in a press release.

It examined the introduction of cell broadcast alarms. This allows a short message to be immediately sent to all mobile phones located in an affected area. There are also plans to further develop the Alertswiss app, which is already used by around 2.2 million people, as well as the corresponding website.

However, information must continue to be accessible and available in the absence of a connection. It’s about standardized messages that are compatible with various types of devices so that third-party vendors can integrate them into their own applications (like vehicle operating systems).

213 million additional francs

Sirens, which are distinguished by their robustness and their decentralized distribution in all cantons, remain an important element, notes the Federal Council. Radio messages with an obligation to broadcast will also continue to be part of the multichannel strategy. Emergency meeting points are yet another instrument, already introduced in most cantons.

On the other hand, the emergency radio, based on the FM band, will not be maintained. It is expensive to maintain and it is important to quickly disseminate information outside the shelters rather than inside them.

The development of the instruments will require an investment of around 213 million additional francs between 2027 and 2035. The Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports (DDPS) has until mid-2025 to propose a project for consultation.