Strengthening international humanitarian law: use of biological, laser or fragmentation weapons is considered a war crime
Bern, 7.7.2020 - The International Criminal Court (ICC) will now be able to punish the use of biological weapons, blinding laser weapons and certain fragmentation weapons as war crimes: Switzerland has ratified the corresponding amendments to the Rome Statute and today handed over its instrument of ratification to the UN in New York. The amendments, which will enter into force in Switzerland next year, provide greater protection for people in war zones. Promoting international humanitarian law is an essential component of Swiss foreign policy.