Annotated Bibliography

A Géoclip observatory offers a range of tools for exploring, analyzing, comparing, representing, mapping and exporting a large number of localized statistical indicators. Among these tools, thematic mapping plays a major role. The specific page within the atlas displays data related to asylum seeker participation in Geneva for the year 2021. The data is presented in a map view, allowing users to visually explore the distribution of asylum applications across different areas within the Canton of Geneva.

Book about the history of Geneva. Official summary:The first mention of Geneva in the writings of Julius Caesar establishes the city's geographical, economic, ethnic and institutional framework. In the Middle Ages, political and religious emancipation facilitated Geneva's rallying to the Protestant Reformation. The break with its prince-bishop led to the creation of a sovereign Protestant Republic. Today, Geneva is an international city.

Book about the histoire of Geneva: Official summary:Where does Geneva's international reputation come from? Who put this small town's name on the world map? And when? And why? Was it by design or by chance? £Joëlle Kuntz explores the historical circumstances of this enigma. She divides them into four founding moments: the Reformation, the Red Cross, the League of Nations and now the UN. Author of Histoire suisse en un clin d'œil (Swiss History in the Blink of an Eye), which won over the public, the journalist here puts her sense of synthesis and irreverence at the service of a well-known but little-told story, that of Geneva's international face.

The police maintain a favourable image in Geneva, where 90% of the population are satisfied with their work. More specifically, 66% believe the police treat every resident equally. The foreigners living in Geneva have a more positive view of the police (69% of approval) than the Swiss (58%). There is a strong discrepancy in the feeling of security depending on the neighbourhood, 42% of the Inhabitants of Vernier feel insecure, while residents of Rive Gauche, a more affluent neighbourhood, continue to feel more secure.

This report by Guillaume Barazonne, former mayor of Geneva and current Conseiller administratif, focuses on the priorities of the municipal police, also known as "proximity police." The top priority mentioned is noise reduction, as complaints about noise are common among the people of Geneva. The report also highlights the use of the "broken window" theory, which suggests that visible signs of crime contribute to further antisocial behavior. The second important issue addressed is the fight against street criminality. The report emphasizes the diverse responsibilities of the police, with the cantonale police handling major criminal cases compared to the municipal police.

Drones have become widely accessible tools, prompting debates on their opportunities and risks. However, little research has explored the demographics and purposes of drone users in Switzerland. This paper addresses this gap by summarizing a quantitative survey of public and private drone users. The findings reveal the extent and expected future trends of professional drone usage in the country, highlighting key economic, privacy, and security issues. By providing insight into the dimensions and effects of drone utilization, the paper aims to inform citizens, public agencies, and the private sector, fostering critical democratic debate.

Saturday 22 May 2022, shortly after midnight, in Geneva, shots were exchanged in a crowded bar in the city centre. The altercation involved members of two motorcycle gangs against each other: the Hells Angels on one side and the Bandidos on the other. This rare scene of public shooting cast light on biker gangs, with all their internal rules and drug trafficking activities it entails. The Bandidos have their ‘territory’ and headquarters in Annemasse, near the border, sparking tension with the Hells Angels.

This case of a 26 years old doctor living in Plainpalais, followed home after work by a person who tortured her for hours, raped and killed her at her place, without knowing her, is a case that traumatised public opinion in Geneva. The horror of the case, its lack of motive and the scale of the damage done to the doctor, had a lasting effect on anyone who heard of this case. It can be noted that Geneva has a psychiatric prison named Curabilis, having a budget of 90 million per year for roughly 90 detained, making it one of the most, if not most expensive, facility per detained in the world. This contrast with the Champ-Dollon prison, which is regularly blamed for having poor infrastructure.

This is a case of sheer unprovoked violence in Geneva that moved the inhabitants. In January 2017, five individuals – two of whom were adults at the time of the events – violently attacked with kicks, fists, baseball bats and motorcycle helmets, two adults who were talking quietly in Saint-Jean. The gang left them for dead. The two victims of the attack – now aged 37 and 38 – are now very seriously disabled and will remain so for the rest of their lives. One of them will be permanently bedridden and has permanently lost her capacity for discernment. The other suffers violent epileptic seizures and will surely have to live in a medical environment for the rest of his life.

This case schockshockedical opinion in Geneva and had a lasting political consequences. A recidivist, condoned twice for raped, killed his sociotherapist during an outdoor activity, the detained having a therapeutic program including horse therapy. This case sparked a debate on therapeutic activities and on how the authorities can best assess the dangerousness of a convict on his path to progressive liberty. Rarely a case had attracted so such vivid media attention in Geneva. It was referred to as the ‘Adeline Affair’, named after the victim.

Fall and De Dardel compare two events in Geneva: the Biden-Putin summit and a women's rights protest. They find that these events, while intertwined in society, exist in separate spheres. The protest symbolized hope but had no impact on the summit, and vice versa. The extensive security measures, including barbed wire and anti-aircraft missiles, created a theatrical display, with the summit venue as the stage. The Swiss president briefly greeted the leaders. The geographers question why protesters altered their route to avoid causing disruption while summit participants effortlessly wielded immense state power.

This article examines the impact of a new police drone in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, on air-related policing practices. It explores the transformation of the aerial realm as a context, object, and perspective of policing. By investigating the elemental, affective, sensory, cognitive, and practical dimensions of the aerial volumes influenced by drones, the study develops an 'aerial geopolitics of security.' This approach offers insights into the interplay between power, space, and security in a three-dimensional and cross-ontological manner. It sheds light on how the police perceive and utilize drones, providing a comprehensive understanding of their implications.

The use of video surveillance is part of a broader security concept, but it can seriously infringe on privacy, and strict requirements must be met before implementation. Before installing a surveillance system, one must consider the risks that need to be addressed and determine if less intrusive measures can achieve the same goals. An effective security strategy should include technical, organizational, and human components, and the ultimate goal may be to collect evidence for use in legal proceedings. These recommendations are based on these considerations.

Post-September 11, societies increasingly radicalize their security approach, investing in urban security technologies. The UK exemplifies this with a ratio of 1 surveillance camera per 14 inhabitants. However, video surveillance is not a security cure-all, and its effectiveness remains debated. Proper security policies and human involvement are crucial. Switzerland takes a cautious approach, implementing surveillance programs by various entities. In Geneva, legislation is unclear, and a draft law on personal data protection is being considered. This report recommends applying video surveillance standards, initiating public debate, formalizing security policies, defining objectives and means, evaluating policies, enacting regulations, and commissioning and operating new systems in line with public security goals.

The final report on the evaluation of video protection in the Pâquis district is divided into two distinct parts.

The first part forms the theoretical and methodological basis of the evaluation. It introduces the context in which the cameras were installed in Geneva, sets out the objectives of the evaluation methodologies used, introduces the major challenges of video surveillance in Switzerland, and reviews existing existing scientific studies.

The second part presents the final results of the evaluation of the video surveillance system in Pâquis, two years after the cameras went into service. The document is structured along the five axes corresponding to the terms of reference. The results are systematically summarized at the end of each chapter.

In Switzerland alone, there are an estimated 22,000 drones for public or private use. The proliferation of these flying machines offers increased possibilities for surveillance and control, raising questions ranging from the future of the private sphere to the risk of terrorism. Francisco Klause, professor of Geography at the University of Neuchâtel, led a survey that has looked at the social acceptability of drones, the first of its kind. For 87% of people surveyed, drones are perceived as mobile surveillance cameras. The same majority claims the right to be informed when one is observed. Finally, 72% of the opinions collected would approve of their banning any observation of public spaces.

Surveillance technology is pervasive yet often unseen, operating in a passive manner. In Geneva, the extent of digital surveillance remains uncertain, with no centralized database for camera locations. Some cameras are privately owned but accessible to the police. The data generated by our behaviors enables preemptive action against crime. Police now employ predictive policing software, leveraging automated algorithms and various data sources for analysis. With society accepting surveillance, the focus shifts to the utilization of collected data and its implications.

The Swiss Federal Railways (CFF) plan to use cameras to collect anonymous statistical data on passenger flow through train stations, including age and gender, to optimize restaurant and store locations and cleaning schedules, and manage crowds. Opponents worry about the potential invasiveness of the technology and the possibility of collecting personal information in the future. While some argue that technology is neutral, others caution against blindly accepting its use and call for prudence in the implementation of highly sensitive technologies.

The article reports on a surveillance system that has been in place in Swiss trains for several years, implemented by the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). The system collects information from the passenger Wi-Fi network, including IP addresses, device information, and browsing history, and uses it to track and identify individuals. This data is shared with law enforcement authorities upon request. The article discusses concerns about the lack of transparency and consent surrounding this system, as well as the potential for abuse and violation of privacy. The SBB has defended the system as necessary for ensuring security and safety on its trains.

Swiss Federal Railways (CFF) plan to extensively monitor over 50 Swiss railway stations from September 2023. They aim to collect and analyze sensitive data, including passenger movements, purchases, and personal characteristics, using a new customer attendance measurement system. Hidden cameras will capture information such as age, sex, and baggage details. Concerns have been raised by civil society organizations and individuals regarding the extensive surveillance, which infringes upon fundamental rights. They urge the CFF to refrain from implementing biometric identification, tracking, and categorization systems in stations. Such installations violate fundamental rights and lack legitimate or commercial justification.

Swiss Federal Railways (CFF) have launched a public tender to select bidders to install a new passenger flow management system in train stations. The CFF's existing system uses sensors to track the number of people entering and leaving the station but the new system aims to provide information about how groups of passengers move within the station, including identifying locations for rest areas or cleaning. The CFF has clarified that facial recognition will not be used in the new system and that it is committed to respecting data protection laws. The public and data protection officials have been critical of the potential use of facial recognition in the project.

Swiss federal law is the only law that regulates facial recognition in public spaces, leaving private companies free to use it. The Swiss federal data protection commissioner is asking the Swiss Federal Railways (CFF) to carry out a risk assessment before launching its facial recognition programme for commercial purposes. The programme will be deployed in 50 Swiss stations, starting with Schaffhausen from September 2023. The CFF has said the data collected will be anonymised and will help to identify patterns of behaviour among customers to help optimise the rental space within its stations. However, a data protection specialist and a politician fear that facial recognition technology could eventually be used for other purposes.

The Swiss are increasingly worried about the rise of a surveillance society, according to a survey conducted by the newspaper Tribune de Genève. The poll showed that 60% of respondents felt that the right to privacy was threatened, with fears over the government's ability to access their personal data without permission. Respondents were also concerned about the use of facial recognition technology, with 72% saying they were against the technology being used in public spaces. There were also concerns over the use of drones and mobile phone tracking. Some respondents called for better regulation and transparency around the use of surveillance technology.

The Swiss Federal Railways (CFF) plan to install cameras at several train stations across Switzerland has sparked concerns among civil liberties advocates and data protection experts, who fear the move will lead to an increase in surveillance and a breach of privacy.

The article, published on KTIPP.ch, reports on the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) allegedly planning to introduce a new surveillance system that would track passengers' movements and activities in real-time. The system, known as "SBB Mobile Protect," would reportedly use cameras and sensors to monitor passengers' behavior and send alerts to security personnel in case of suspicious activity. The article raises concerns about the potential invasion of privacy and violation of personal rights that such a system could entail. The SBB has not confirmed the plans for the new system, but the article quotes a spokesperson for the company as saying that they are exploring ways to enhance security measures.

Drawing upon police statistics, this paper explores the impacts of the video surveillance cameras (CCTV) installed in November 2014 in the Pâquis neighbourhood in Geneva. It focuses on the evolution of criminality within the filmed perimeter and nearby settings. The analysis completes a previous article on the perceived safety of residents. In line with former studies, the results underline the limited preventative effects of the CCTV system. The analysis shows that cameras are inducing criminality displacement, mainly of drug trafficking. Overall, the study provides a differentiated and complex image of CCTB systems as instruments of territorialization of monitored areas.

Based on a spatial distribution study of video-surveillance cameras in Geneva, this article explores various surveillance strategies and their impact on urban territory. The dominance of private institutions using video surveillance fosters privatization, disciplinary measures, and territorial fragmentation. In Geneva, 37.5% of cameras in public spaces belong to the financial sector, with the public sector following suit. Concerningly, residents are unaware whether they are being filmed by private or state actors. This securitization of public space by private institutions raises apprehensions about residents' knowledge and consent in Geneva.

Based on two surveys conducted in Geneva in 2015 and 2016, this paper examines residents' perceptions of video surveillance in the Pâquis area and the broader population. It reveals that when control is delegated to distant systems and individuals, a "mental distance" emerges between those being monitored and the surveillance system. People quickly forget about the cameras and no longer consciously imagine what happens behind their backs. Consequently, the cameras gradually lose relevance in daily life, limiting their symbolic power to revitalize and re-territorialize the monitored areas.

The "Préposé cantonal à la protection des données et à la transparence" (PPDT) has been asked about the use of "bodycams" in Geneva's prisons, and more particularly about the conformity of the use of "bodycams" with the current legal framework.

On March 16, 2022, the Department of the Territory requested the opinion of the Cantonal Data Protection and Transparency Commissioner, in the context of a draft law on waste (PL 12993) presented by the State Council and submitted on June 23, 2021. One of the objectives of the text is to provide the authorities with the necessary legal framework for an efficient repression of contraventions. To this end, the Department of the Territory wishes to authorize the installation of video surveillance systems for the purpose of prosecuting offences and to allow the recording of offences based on video surveillance. The opinion of the Cantonal Commissioner is required on these two modifications of the initial text.

The Secretary General of the Judicial Power submitted a project for a Judicial Power regulation on access to documents and personal data to the Cantonal Ombudsman for review. The Judicial Power intends for the project to take the form of a regulation rather than a directive of application of the LIPAD due to its independence. However, the motives mentioned the LIPAD's Article 20, which requires the Commission to issue necessary directives to implement measures for publication and protection of legitimate interests. The previous regulation on public information, access to documents, and personal data protection is set to be replaced by the new regulation.

The Department of Territory requested the opinion of the Cantonal Ombudsman for Data Protection and Transparency on a proposed modification to the LIPAD (PL 12984) submitted by Grand Council deputies on June 15, 2021. The modification aims to add a new purpose for video surveillance, which is to ensure public health in communal waste disposal sites and prevent illegal dumping and damage by notifying authorities and contributing to the establishment of any offenses committed.

The Department of Territory requested the opinion of the Cantonal Ombudsman for Data Protection and Transparency on a proposed law on waste, specifically regarding the use of video surveillance recordings in the identification of offenses. The request was made via email on October 1, 2020, by the Head of Waste Management at the Office of Environmental Affairs. The deadline for a response was October 14, 2020, as the proposal was to be submitted to the Chancellery on October 21, 2020. The legal basis for the request is Article 56 paragraph 3 letter e of the LIPAD and Article 23 paragraph 8 of the RIPAD.

The cantonal commissioner is regularly approached by individuals who wish to install a video surveillance system that would film, incidentally, small portions of the public domain. However, this situation is legally unclear for various reasons: on the one hand, several authorities are involved (cantonal official, federal official, cantonal police, municipal police); on the other hand, the rules relating to video surveillance leave a certain margin of appreciation, which inevitably impacts legal security. The purpose of this legal opinion is to recall the rules applicable to video surveillance, to focus in particular on the "grey zone" that video surveillance of a portion of the public domain by a private party represents and to share the position of the cantonal Commissioner in this matter.

The Director of Legal Affairs at the Canton of Geneva's Detention Office, Nora Krausz, requested the opinion of the Cantonal Data Protection and Transparency Officer on a proposed regulation on security and hearing brigades. The regulation included a chapter on video surveillance and was based on the Swiss Criminal Code and other federal laws. Krausz wished to submit the regulation to the Council of State as soon as possible and requested a response by March 2, 2018. The Data Protection Officer had previously raised concerns about the regulation's compatibility with the LIPAD during a meeting with Krausz in July 2017, and some changes were subsequently made to the proposal. The regulation's data protection provisions are included in the request.

The Deputy Secretary-General informs that the State Internal Audit Service found in December 2015 that the Directorate General of Transports (DGT) did not comply with certain provisions of the LIPAD in the management of traffic cameras. The DGT recorded continuous images for traffic surveillance and analysis, which was contrary to the RIPAD. The Deputy Secretary-General suggests that the RIPAD should be adapted to allow for continuous recording. The DGT does not intend to use the recordings for statistical purposes and ensures that individuals are not identifiable in the footage.

In an email dated February 17, 2014, Hana Sultan Warnier, Deputy Secretary General of the Department of Security and Economy, submitted a draft regulation on the establishment of detention for detainees requiring psychiatric care to the Cantonal Data Protection and Transparency Commissioner (PPDT) for review. The draft regulation was submitted to the PPDT due to its impact on personal data protection, particularly with respect to Article 64 on the video surveillance system.

The Swiss State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) commissioned a study to estimate the number of undocumented immigrants in Switzerland. It also examined labor market access and regulations on hardship cases. Through interviews, national experts, and various data sources, the study suggests that there are between 58,000 and 105,000 undocumented immigrants (excluding EU/AELE nationals), with the most likely estimate being 76,000. Two-thirds entered as tourists or clandestinely, and many have been in the country for years. About 90% of undocumented adult immigrants are employed, with half working in private households. In 2014, 391 immigrants obtained regularized status under hardship regulations.

Powerpoint of the final report of the papyrus project.

Switzerland has passed a law allowing the authorities to search the mobile phones of asylum seekers if they cannot prove their identities in other ways. The data collected by the software will be saved on a secure server for up to a year. While the majority of people who apply for asylum in Switzerland arrive with a mobile phone, they often don't have any identification documents to prove who they are. The new law has drawn criticism from organizations defending asylum seekers, including the UN's Refugee Agency, as an infringement on the right to privacy. The method has been used in several European countries, but it is now being reviewed by some for legal reasons.

The article at the given link is in French and discusses the position of humanrights.ch, a Swiss non-governmental organization, on the Swiss referendum regarding the participation of Switzerland in the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex). The organization expresses its opposition to Switzerland's participation in Frontex, citing concerns about human rights violations at the EU's external borders and the lack of transparency and accountability of the agency. The article also provides a brief overview of the background and context of the referendum.

Swiss citizens approved a referendum to enhance participation in the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) with 71.5% support. Switzerland's contribution to Frontex will increase from CHF 24 million to CHF 61 million by 2027, accompanied by forty additional staff. All Swiss cantons, particularly Zoug at 77%, backed the referendum. However, refugee advocacy groups criticize Frontex reinforcement, citing concerns about border violence, illegal expulsions, and human rights abuses. Frontex has faced accusations of such actions, prompting its former head to resign. Despite criticisms, the Swiss government, backed by major parties except the left, emphasized supporting Frontex to maintain Schengen Area membership and access vital databases for combating cross-border crime.

The Swiss canton of Geneva has regularized about 500 undocumented migrants in 2021, down from 1,250 the previous year, according to RTS. Authorities have attributed the 60% drop in the regularization of undocumented migrants to a catch-up effect after the official end of the Papyrus operation in December 2018, which granted legal status to 3,000 people, or around a quarter of the undocumented migrants in the canton. While some organizations have reported increased difficulty in passing applications, others have noted progress in the situation, with the ability to regularize single people without children. The councilor in charge of the population, Mauro Poggia, stated that regularization would continue at a high rate in Geneva.

Artificial Intelligence can represent a valuable resource in managing migration flows. AI algorithms can perform several tasks including border controls, identity checks and predictive policing procedures. However, the utilization of such tools in the migration context raises several issues which must be analyzed and discussed in their implications. The presence of bias in datasets can lead to outcomes detrimental to the already vulnerable conditions of migrants. Furthermore, the inherent opaqueness of AI algorithms working routine does not allow the formulation of a clear accountability framework. This article aims to address these concerns to formulate valid answers from a legal and technological perspective, mainly focusing on the European Union approach to these issues.

Switzerland's reputation as a safe and efficient country stems from its culture of protection and national security measures. Salvatore Vitale, an immigrant in Switzerland, researched the origins and integration of this security-focused culture following the 2014 federal popular initiative "against massive immigration." In his book, "How to Secure a Country," Vitale uses photographs, diagrams, and illustrations to examine the country's practical security protocols and solutions. Political scientists Jonas Hagmann, Philip Di Salvo, and Roland Bleiker provide additional analysis on the Swiss security system, while curator Lars Willumeit explores contemporary statehood behaviors and codes. This case study sheds light on global societal functioning.

The Geneva Dialogue cultivates a shared vision with leading businesses for secure digital products, enriching their understanding and active involvement in global policy processes. Through online discussions, industry representatives, diplomats, regulators, and standard-setting organizations collaboratively explore future norms, regulations, and standardization to bolster the security of digital products. The inaugural "Digital Products and International Standards" discussion, held on May 28, 2021, drew participants from various countries, providing insights into the evolving landscape and the growing convergence of private and industrial information technology.

During the COVID-19 lockdown in Geneva, free food distribution was organized by the "aravane de la Solidarité," an association of social service organizations, from May 2 to June 6, 2020. A study on the beneficiaries revealed their poor housing conditions and increased risk of contracting COVID-19. It also highlighted their insecurity in meeting basic needs like healthcare and nutrition. Another study conducted on June 6, 2013, focused on families with children under 13 who had received food distribution after the lockdown. It found that 21.8% of participants lacked proper documentation, while 53% faced housing difficulties. The study showed that 26.5% of respondents had already compromised their food intake before the crisis, which rose to 68.1% during the pandemic. However, access to health services and education for children was reported as excellent.

Switzerland's strengths, including neutrality, legal certainty, and political stability, extend to the cybersecurity sector. Its key assets include strong privacy protection, minimal regulations, and highly skilled engineers. The country boasts top-notch internet infrastructure and reliable power supply for flawless server operation. International companies like Kaspersky and SWIFT choose Switzerland for regional data centers. Switzerland contributes to global cybersecurity and promotes peaceful use of ICT through organizations like the Internet Society, IGF, ITU, ICT4Peace, GCSP, and WEF Cyber Security Centre. The "Trust Valley," a digital trust and cybersecurity center, was launched in October 2020 by the Cantons of Vaud and Geneva to foster innovation.

Switzerland faces cybersecurity challenges, with vulnerable systems in 130 companies and communes, an increase of 65% in cyberattacks compared to 2020, and a shortage of cyber specialists. Geneva, home to numerous international organizations and NGOs, is a prime target. The recent cyberattack on the ICRC compromised data of over 515,000 individuals. The CyberPeace Institute provides training to NGOs, assisting 20 organizations and aiming to support 100 by 2022. The ICRC is developing an online equivalent of its emblem for safeguarding civilian infrastructures. Florian Schütz, the federal cybersecurity delegate, recommends risk identification and seeking advice to enhance cyber capabilities and resilience.

The Trust Valley initiative aims to make Switzerland a global leader in the field of digital trust by bringing together industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers to create a more secure and trustworthy digital ecosystem. The initiative has the backing of Swiss President Ueli Maurer and will focus on four key areas: cybersecurity, blockchain, digital identity, and data privacy. The Trust Valley aims to foster collaboration between academia, startups, and established companies, with the ultimate goal of attracting more foreign investment and creating new jobs in Switzerland's technology sector.

This paper examines how Facebook and Google handle political advertising on their platforms. Based on interviews with former employees, it reveals that while both companies avoid being arbiters of political discourse, they actively review paid content. The study highlights internal debates within each company and the influence of external events on content policies. However, decision-making processes are often opaque, lacking transparency and clear justifications to campaigns and the public. This limits opportunities for political practitioners to contest regulatory decisions. The authors advocate for greater capacity for public engagement and more robust mechanisms within these firms to address content decisions.

This article examines the governance of Facebook and its implications for other internet corporations. It argues that corporations have a vested interest in governing human interactions for profit and making decisions on political issues. Facebook effectively governs and controls users by transforming different forms of capital into general social capital and by threatening to seize accumulated social capital. Digital platforms, contrary to the perception of decentralized governance, engage in legislation, justice administration, punishment, and utilize diverse governing apparatuses such as algorithms, judicial labor, and quasi-constitutional documents. These patterns shed light on broader dynamics in the digital capitalism landscape.

In an interview during the Swiss Digital Days, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis emphasizes the significance of digital transformation and Switzerland's role. The Federal Council's Foreign Policy Strategy 2020-2023 includes digitization as a priority issue for the first time, alongside peace, security, prosperity, and sustainability. Mr Cassis highlights how digitization is fundamentally reshaping our lives and the world, impacting Switzerland's foreign policy. Switzerland aims for international leadership in digital governance, with International Geneva hosting over half of global governance discussions. Swiss initiatives like GESDA and the Cyberpeace Institute contribute to this influence, while ensuring that international law principles adapt to the digital realm remains crucial.

The article provides a concise overview of Switzerland's data protection laws. It highlights the constitutional right to privacy and the governing texts, such as the Federal Act on Data Protection 1992 and the Swiss Civil Code. The article mentions the criminal code's provisions related to data protection and privacy, as well as sector-specific requirements for industries like healthcare and finance. It also notes that Switzerland has enacted its own data protection law, distinct from the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation, while aligning with the Council of Europe's Modernised Convention for the Protection of Individuals.

Switzerland is considering the idea of developing a sovereign cloud to protect the security and access of its data, without using tools from US or Chinese companies. With the rise of cyberattacks, the idea is to create a digital safe for citizens, businesses and international organisations. The infrastructure would be developed and piloted by the Swiss Confederation and would support the costs. Currently, the federal administration is preparing contracts with private clouds like Amazon and Alibaba, but some politicians want to create a Swiss-made infrastructure. However, the debate around digital sovereignty is ongoing, as the Swiss Federal Council currently sees investing in its own infrastructure as impractical.

The Swiss Confederation has awarded cloud service contracts worth CHF 110m to tech giants Amazon, IBM, Microsoft, Oracle, and Alibaba. The selection was based on factors such as competitive pricing, discounts, and established data centers. While concerns were raised regarding Alibaba's ties to the Chinese Communist Party, their competitive pricing influenced the decision. The absence of European providers sparked concerns about sovereignty and digital autonomy. Experts highlight the power asymmetry between service providers and users, including the Swiss Confederation, in such arrangements.

Edward Snowden's memoir, "Permanent Record," delves into his life and his two-year stay in Geneva from 2007 to 2009. In the book, Snowden highlights Geneva as a prime target-rich environment, hosting organizations like the International Atomic Energy Agency, the International Telecommunication Union, and the World Trade Organisation. He suggests that the CIA targeted the Swiss banking industry and recounts a failed operation to recruit a Saudi banker. Snowden also discusses his technical work, aiding intelligence officers and establishing covert online communications. The memoir sheds light on his unease with the lavish lifestyles of the super-rich in Geneva, contrasting with the hardships faced by friends in the US.

The "Public Clouds Confederation" project enables the Swiss federal administration to acquire scalable cloud computing services from five providers for five years. The current phase involves contract preparation and establishing guidelines for department usage. Public clouds will supplement private clouds and data centers, with highly protected applications and data remaining in federal administration data centers. Compliance with legal requirements and governance rules is mandatory, including a thorough risk analysis before utilizing public clouds for data processing. The project aims to grant the administration access to scalable infrastructure and a variety of new technologies.

In this opinion article from Le Temps, the focus is on recognizing the importance of digital integrity for individuals and its connection to fundamental rights. The article emphasizes the need for protecting personal data and highlights the responsibility of companies in this regard. It argues that digital integrity should be considered a fundamental right, urging for legal frameworks and regulations to ensure its protection. The article raises awareness about the challenges posed by digital technologies and calls for collective efforts to safeguard individuals' digital integrity and uphold their fundamental rights.

The article discusses the upcoming recognition and protection of digital integrity in Switzerland. It highlights the efforts being made to introduce legal measures that acknowledge and safeguard individuals' digital integrity. The discussion revolves around the importance of protecting personal data, ensuring freedom of movement, and safeguarding privacy in the digital realm. The article emphasizes the need for legislative action to address the challenges posed by digital technologies and to establish a comprehensive framework that protects individuals' digital integrity. It reflects the ongoing efforts in Switzerland to prioritize and safeguard digital rights.

The article reports that the canton of Geneva in Switzerland is considering the inclusion of digital integrity in its constitution. The proposal aims to recognize and protect individuals' digital integrity as a fundamental right. It highlights the growing importance of addressing the challenges and threats posed by digital technologies to personal data and privacy. The inclusion of digital integrity in the constitution would serve as a significant step towards safeguarding individuals' rights in the digital realm. The article reflects the ongoing efforts in Geneva to prioritize and protect digital rights within the legal framework of the canton.

This article features an interview with Grégoire Barbey and Alexis Roussel, who discuss the concept of digital integrity and their efforts to promote and protect it. They highlight the need to conquer digital integrity by creating awareness, fostering collaboration between different stakeholders, and developing technological solutions that respect individual rights. They emphasize the importance of privacy, data protection.

The Grand Council of Geneva has adopted a draft law to anchor the right to digital integrity in the canton's Constitution. If approved by the people, the law would make Geneva a pioneer in this regard, with rights related to protection against abusive treatment, online security, and offline life. The proposed article aims to protect individuals in the digital space, complementing data protection provisions. It includes rights such as protection against abusive data processing, cybersecurity, the right to be forgotten, and the right to an offline life. The proposed law also addresses the issue of digital sovereignty and emphasizes the need for adequate protection of personal data when processed abroad by the state.

The article discusses the possibility of Geneva becoming a pioneer in recognizing digital integrity. By anchoring the right to digital integrity in its Constitution, Geneva aims to protect individuals in the digital realm. The author presents an opinion that recognizing digital integrity is essential for safeguarding personal data and ensuring privacy rights. By taking this step, Geneva could set an example for other regions and contribute to the ongoing discussions on digital rights and data protection. The article highlights the significance of this initiative and its potential impact on shaping digital policies and regulations.

This article advocates for recognizing digital integrity as a fundamental human right. It suggests that digital integrity should be considered either as a standalone right or as an interpretative principle for other related rights. Digital integrity encompasses the protection of individuals in a world dominated by pervasive digital technologies. It ensures consistency between the safeguarding of human dignity, freedom, and privacy. By concretizing the protection of human dignity, digital integrity promotes a substantial understanding of freedom and its connection to privacy in the digital realm. The article explores a republican perspective on digital integrity and its implications for other rights.

The article discusses the challenges of data protection in the digital age, focusing on the concept of digital integrity. It argues that personal data cannot be effectively protected solely through a separate right to personal data protection, which primarily serves market regulation. Instead, the article proposes considering digital integrity as a new foundation for digital rights, aligned with the concept of human dignity. By adopting this approach, it suggests that the level of effective protection of individuals in the digital sphere can be increased, addressing existing gaps in the safeguarding of digital rights.

This article provides an overview of the Swiss privacy law and its relationship with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). It discusses the key principles and obligations outlined in the Swiss Federal Data Protection Act (DPA) and compares them to the GDPR. The article highlights the importance of compliance with both the Swiss and EU regulations for organizations handling personal data. It also examines the legal framework for cross-border data transfers and the role of the Swiss Data Protection Authority (FDPIC) in enforcing data protection laws. Overall, the article offers insights into the Swiss privacy landscape and its alignment with international privacy standards.

The book brings together eight contributions examining the right to digital integrity. It opens with two contributions presenting the concept of digital integrity, from which it emerges that the right to digital integrity must be seen in relation to the recognition of a digital life (Alexis Roussel), and that the role of this right is to crystallize a conception of individual freedom in the digital environment (Johan Rochel). The following contributions analyze the right to digital integrity from the perspective of constitutional law (Pascal Mahon), civil law (Marie-Laure Papaux van Delden), criminal law (André Kuhn), data protection (Jean-Philippe Walter), freedom of the press (Bertil Cottier) and private international law (Florence Guillaume and Sven Riva).

The media frequently highlights scandals involving personal data use by web giants like Google, Apple, Facebook, Amazon, and Microsoft (GAFAM). However, the personal data economy extends beyond these companies to include others and governments. This raises questions about the meaning of personal data and the need for citizens to take control of their digital lives and protect themselves. The fight for fundamental rights in the digital era has begun, but previous efforts to defend digital interests have fallen short. To ensure integrity, including through technology, new political thinking is necessary, which this book explores, focusing on the concept of digital integrity.

The text examines the US Capitol attack carried out by right-wing pro-Trump extremists, highlighting the role of social networks in spreading disinformation and radicalizing individuals. It discusses how algorithms exploit personal data to promote engaging but often misleading content, emphasizing the immense power and influence of Big Tech companies. The need for regulatory frameworks to protect user rights and challenge the monopolistic dominance of these tech giants is emphasized. The concept of a right to digital integrity is explored as a potential solution to counter the control and influence of Big Tech, ensuring the preservation of fundamental rights in the digital space.

The right to digital integrity has gained attention in discussions on how fundamental rights should address digital technology threats. The Council of Europe and Switzerland have explored incorporating this right into legal frameworks. It establishes a link between dignity, individual freedom, privacy, and informational self-determination. Digital integrity aims to protect individuals' capacity to act freely with technology, including access, protection as users, and protection as objects of technology. It extends the concept of freedom and privacy protection. While not resolving all disputes, digital integrity provides a norm to structure and guide discussions on freedom in the digital context.

The "Stop Facial Recognition" alliance has petitioned Swiss authorities, demanding a ban on automated facial recognition and biometric surveillance. The petition, signed by over 10,000 individuals, has been delivered to mayors of major Swiss cities and canton leaders. Facial recognition technology is viewed as a threat to human rights and incompatible with freedoms like expression and assembly. The alliance, including Amnesty International Switzerland, AlgorithmWatch Switzerland, and the Digital Society, calls for a ban on this technology in public spaces. Lausanne and Zurich's mayors have received the petition, and the alliance is planning its next steps to prevent widespread biometric surveillance.Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Quisque sit amet nulla quis leo mollis imperdiet a et massa. Suspendisse bibendum risus vitae ex pellentesque hendrerit. Nam blandit lacus id lacus tincidunt facilisis. Duis nec metus in nisi consectetur mollis. Cras congue sodales magna vel maximus. Quisque ipsum elit, rutrum a nulla luctus, rhoncus imperdiet augue. Nam porta tincidunt ex, sed suscipit nunc euismod vitae. Mauris a mollis augue. Sed aliquet nec arcu ut ullamcorper. Aenean posuere vehicula consectetur. Proin feugiat nunc id viverra hendrerit. Fusce placerat convallis imperdiet.

Negotiations between Switzerland and the European Union (EU) have ended as the EU works to regulate AI-based mass surveillance, particularly biometric identification systems, which are increasingly being used for surveillance and data collection. While the new Swiss law on police measures to combat terrorism, approved by voters in June 2021, is seen by some observers as dangerously vague, it could indirectly increase the use of facial recognition technologies that Brussels is seeking to ban. The law grants unprecedented power to the federal police to use electronic surveillance on a potential terrorist. Some cantonal police forces are already using biometric systems to investigate offenses in criminal proceedings, though there is no clear law defining the framework for applying the technologies.

Former Swiss cabinet minister Doris Leuthard will launch a new foundation at the 2020 World Economic Forum summit. The foundation aims to harness the potential of digital technologies for the benefit of all and has received support from Swiss President Ueli Maurer, top executives from companies like Microsoft, Huawei, Google, Nestlé, Roche, and Credit Suisse, as well as heads of Swiss universities, Federal Institutes of Technology, and United Nations representatives. The foundation's focus will be on fostering trust, transparency, and public-private partnerships, drawing inspiration from the UN-appointed High-level Panel on Digital Cooperation's report "The Age of Digital Interdependence.”

Global demand for employee surveillance technology has increased during the pandemic. This is causing concern in Switzerland, not least because the country’s legal system is not set up to deal with it. Surveillance at work is also on the rise in Switzerland. Although there is a lack of precise statistics on the activities of private companies, the Federal Data Protection and Information Commissioner (FDPIC) has confirmed that the phenomenon is growing in scale and is under observation. During the pandemic, there has been an increase in the number of reports concerning breaches of privacy at work. The FDPIC is aware of the problem and has opened an investigation into one company, though unfortunately, they cannot reveal any more details.

This article explores the impact of military drone systems, specifically the ADS 95 Ranger, on the relationship between Swiss border guards and the border space. It discusses how these flying devices enable and limit the acquisition of new knowledge by border guards, leading to changes in surveillance practices and identification controls. The analysis is based on empirical data from interviews, action maps, and field observations during a "drone engagement" in September 2014. The study aims to understand how military drone systems influence border relations through the knowledge and practices they generate.

The article is a French version of the Swiss Civil Code published on the official website of the Federal Law Gazette. It provides the comprehensive text of the Swiss Civil Code as of 2017. The Swiss Civil Code encompasses various areas of civil law, including general provisions, obligations, property rights, family law, and inheritance law. It serves as a crucial legal resource for understanding and applying civil law principles in Switzerland.

The article is a French version of the Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP) published on the official website of the Federal Law Gazette. It provides the complete text of the FADP as of 1993. The FADP establishes the legal framework for data protection in Switzerland, ensuring the privacy and security of personal data. It covers aspects such as data processing principles, the rights of data subjects, obligations of data controllers, and enforcement mechanisms. This article serves as a valuable resource for understanding the specific provisions and requirements outlined in the Swiss data protection legislation.

The exponential growth of technology, particularly the internet, poses new challenges and risks for which current law is inadequate. The increasing use of digital tools, including teleworking and digital conferences, creates a flow of personal data that needs to be protected, especially regarding confidentiality and individual integrity. Geneva seeks to position itself as a "Trust Valley" in cybersecurity and plans to reform its constitution to fully regulate digital integrity. The proposed norm aims to guarantee fundamental rights and freedoms in the digital context, adding an additional tool to individual protection. The Valais canton plans to include a similar reinforcement of digital integrity in its new constitution.

The Law on Public Information, Access to Documents, and Protection of Personal Data (LIPAD) governs institutional information and personal data protection. Its aims are to promote free opinion-forming and protect the rights of individuals and legal entities regarding their personal data. Article 50 mandates the appointment of a LIPAD officer at the University, responsible for ensuring compliance with the law. Currently, the UNIGE Legal Affairs Department temporarily fulfills this role, supported by the Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM). Their mission is to enforce LIPAD, its implementing regulations (RIPAD), and the LIPAD directive, overseeing all relevant University bodies and staff.

The COVID-19 pandemic will have long-term effects on national and international security policy. Switzerland's security is influenced by the growing rivalry between major powers. The Federal Intelligence Service (FIS) plays a crucial role in anticipating and assessing strategic threats to Switzerland. The latest FIS report highlights intelligence developments from the past year. The increased pressure to digitalize due to the pandemic has heightened vulnerability to cyber attacks, particularly through supply chains. Espionage remains a persistent challenge, with cyber espionage on the rise. Geneva remains a prime target due to international organizations and diplomatic missions. Foreign intelligence services pose direct threats and engage in influence operations against Swiss interests.

The Swiss intelligence agency foiled a jihadist terrorist attack planned by Swiss individuals linked to ISIS targeting the fuel tanks of Vernier. The story was revealed by Le Temps newspaper after an investigation of several months, during which they compiled information and testimonials. The article highlights the desire and capacity of ISIS to harm Swiss interests, and some facts were not disclosed to avoid compromising ongoing investigations.

Switzerland is an increasingly favoured meeting place for foreign secret service agents according to the NZZ am Sonntag newspaper. The resurgence of Switzerland as a hub for spy meetings is due to the country’s central geographical location, good infrastructure and low level of police surveillance. The paper quotes sources as saying that the number of meetings in Switzerland between spies from foreign countries has “exploded” in recent years because of rising demand for secret information. The sources did not wish to be named. They say Geneva is a favourite place because of the large number of international organisations. In 2016, Swiss voters also approved a new law to give the intelligence services more tools to tap private phone lines and monitor cyberspace activities.

In a world haunted by worst-case scenarios, the mobility of individuals is increasingly seen as a risk and a threat, leading to heightened practices of control and surveillance. Strategies against terrorism, particularly since the 9/11 attacks, have greatly influenced these practices. Security is now associated with protection and prevention, with surveillance and control measures becoming central in the pursuit of "zero risk." This article aims to explore how surveillance of population movements has intensified and how this increased control fosters anxiety, suspicion, and hostility in Western societies.

This article examines Swiss counterintelligence efforts against Chinese espionage during the Cold War, focusing on the challenges faced by the Swiss Federal Police in uncovering and dismantling Chinese intelligence networks in Switzerland during the 1950s and 1960s. By utilizing recently declassified Swiss Federal Police files, the article explores the Swiss federal counterintelligence system and filing system, highlighting their impact on surveillance and investigation of Chinese officials and their contacts. It also discusses the methods employed by the Swiss Federal Police to identify intelligence agents within the Chinese diplomatic staff and the difficulties encountered with wiretapping and surveillance. Lastly, the article delves into the Federal Police's collaboration with other countries in investigating China's international espionage networks and trade of embargoed goods.