Private security services provided abroad in 2025: tenth FDFA report on PSSA implementation
Bern, 13.05.2026 — At its meeting on 13 May 2026, the Federal Council took note of the tenth annual report on the implementation of the Federal Act on Private Security Services Provided Abroad (PSSA). Under the Act, companies wishing to offer private security services abroad from Switzerland are required to notify the competent authority in advance. In 2025, the competent authorities received 82 declarations from companies. Although no activities were prohibited, two criminal complaints were lodged with the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland.
The Export Controls and Private Security Services Section (ECPS) of the FDFA is responsible for implementing the PSSA. In 2025, a total of 82 activities across various categories were reported. The ECPS initiated one review procedure in 2025; it was ongoing at the end of the year. In 2025, inspections by the ECPS led it to lodge two criminal complaints with the Office of the Attorney General. The ECPS found no evidence of private security services potentially involving direct participation in hostilities or serious human rights violations. Such activities are prohibited under articles 8 and 9 of the PSSA.
Strengthening cooperation at national and international level
In 2025, the ECPS stepped up dialogue with the cantons with a view to raising awareness of the PSSA and establishing points of contact. An event to mark the 10th anniversary of the ECPS was an opportunity to foster deeper discussion with the cantonal authorities. During the function, which was held in Bern at the end of September 2025, representatives from the judiciary, police, administration, politics and associations discussed security industry trends, the role of private security service providers and the experiences gained from a decade of implementing the PSSA.
At international level, the ECPS assisted the United Nations intergovernmental working group on private military and security companies (PMSCs) and held bilateral talks with foreign regulatory authorities. It also attended the 2025 Montreux Document Forum, where it called for enhanced dialogue within the existing expert network.