In Geneva, Switzerland supports Yemeni initiative to protect civilians
Bern, 29.10.2026 — On 29 October 2026, FDFA Secretary of State Alexandre Fasel took part in a meeting of Yemeni tribal leaders in Geneva. The meeting was to present a code of honour to strengthen protections for the civilian population in Yemen. Switzerland backs the code, which was drafted on the initiative of the Yemeni people and organised by the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF).
Representatives of Yemeni tribes gathered at the Palais des Nations to present the product of two years of consultations and dialogue between tribal leaders from different regions of the country. Almost five thousand Yemeni dignitaries have already pledged their support for the code of honour. It is rooted in the traditions and values shared by the different tribes of Yemen, and sets out commitments to protect civilians, respect humanitarian principles, engage in local mediation and de-escalate tensions.
Commitment to protecting civilians
Against a backdrop of the ongoing conflict and its serious humanitarian consequences, the code of honour is intended to reduce violence. In particular, it sets out rules of conduct designed to protect civilian populations, facilitate access to humanitarian aid and make the actors concerned more accountable. Its implementation is dependent upon local monitoring and mediation mechanisms.
In his speech, Mr Fasel praised the commitment of the Yemeni tribal leaders and emphasised the importance of translating the principles of the code into practical long-term action. He called on the international community to help implement the code with the support of DCAF.
Established in 2000 on the initiative of the Swiss federal government, DCAF is one of three Geneva-based centres in the peace and security field that are supported by Switzerland. It works to strengthen democratic governance in the security sector and to ensure respect for the rule of law. Switzerland has been supporting DCAF's activities in Yemen since 2022 as part of its policy on peacebuilding, international humanitarian law and its good offices.