We contribute, generously, to the UN budget. But today Switzerland has, in the General Assembly, only the status of an observer. The Swiss people will decide on our request for UN membership in 2002. New face of war Wars and violence are, despite all our hopes, still facts of life. But within one century the face of war has changed.
Wars take place less frequently between states, but increasingly within states.
This new type of conflict is often of local or regional nature, played out along ethnic lines, and involving terrorism. These conflicts can destabilize entire countries. Their consequences are felt across borders. They leave a lasting physical and mental impacton the people, on the minds. It has become more difficult to ensure respect for international humanitarian law.