This lack of attention by politicians, media, academic and business circles in Switzerland is striking, given that the tech sector has been the fastest-growing engine of value creation in modern free-market societies over the past two decades. For instance, from 2015 to 2025 the U.S. tech sector market cap grew from $3.4 trillion to a staggering $18.1 trillion1 .This annualized growth of 18.2% is far bigger than most top US, let alone top European sectors. From driving economic growth to reshaping global geopolitics, digital technologies have fundamentally transformed the way societies operate

The rise of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cloud computing is set to accelerate. Without a clear and decisive strategy, Switzerland risks falling behind in this rapidly evolving landscape. This manifesto outlines key attributes we believe to be essential for Switzerland’ future.

Adopting digital neutrality positions Switzerland as a trusted global hub for data, research, and innovation, free from political interference and independent of the growing division into global power blocs. Under Swiss jurisdiction, stored data must be protected by strong legal frameworks, ensuring confidentiality and resisting external influence.

Beyond security, digital neutrality promotes unbiased research and fair technological development, safeguarding against monopolistic control and ensuring open access to infrastructure. By embracing digital neutrality, Switzerland strengthens its independence and reinforces its reputation as a center for trust, security, and technological fairness in the digital age.

Establishing a digital residency program should be the priority of federal and cantonal parliaments. This initiative would allow businesses to register, operate, and protect their intellectual property under Swiss jurisdiction without requiring physical presence. Companies could benefit from secure banking services, legal protections, and potential tax advantages, all while ensuring that their technological assets remain shielded from external political or regulatory interference.

By positioning itself as a safe haven for tech-driven enterprises, Switzerland can attract forward-thinking companies, reinforcing its reputation as a neutral and secure digital hub aligned with its longstanding values of trust, stability, and independence.

Given Geneva’s status as the headquarters of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and key UN intellectual property institutions, Switzerland is uniquely positioned to leverage its global leadership in digital governance and innovation. Strengthening this ecosystem would not only enhance its appeal to technology firms but also cement its role as a key player in shaping the future of intellectual property protection on an international scale.

Following a distinctly Swiss tradition, the cantons should take the lead in shaping the details and implementation of any digital residency programs, while the federal government should pass minimal legislation—ensuring that the initiative is neither hindered nor obstructed. This approach would uphold Switzerland’s decentralized governance model while fostering an innovative and business-friendly environment.

To achieve true digital neutrality, Switzerland must assert greater sovereignty over its technological infrastructure. Data, cloud services, and digital infrastructure should not be overly dependent on foreign providers, which exposes critical sectors to external risks and vulnerabilities.

Switzerland must actively reduce reliance on foreign technology, encourage local innovation, and attract companies willing to develop secure, independent solutions within its borders. By creating favorable conditions for tech enterprises, Switzerland can establish itself as a sovereign and innovation-driven global hub, securing its digital future while maintaining its neutrality.

We propose the creation of a "Neutral Technology" label, issued to companies that adhere to strict neutrality, data protection, and privacy standards. This certification would guarantee that certified companies:

• Operate independently of geopolitical agendas
• Uphold the highest standards of data security
• Remain free from foreign government influence

Such a label would enhance investor confidence, differentiate tech companies that embrace Swiss values in global markets, and reinforce Switzerland’s position as a leader in digital integrity.

The key to the success of this initiative lies in determining the right entity to issue the certification. Rather than establishing a costly and potentially inefficient federal office, the Swiss government should focus on facilitating the creation of an independent expert consortium. This group could be composed of leading institutions such as AI research groups, EPFL, ETH Zurich, and fintech organizations. By bringing together experts in cybersecurity, digital governance, and financial technology, this model would ensure the label is credible, respected, and internationally recognized, without unnecessary bureaucratic overhead.

Switzerland must implement accelerated pathways for global entrepreneurs developing neutral technology in the country. This means streamlined company incorporation, immediate banking access, and strong intellectual property protections. By making Switzerland a fast, efficient, and secure place to build technology businesses, the country can attract top talent, drive innovation, and secure its position as a global leader in digital neutrality.

While strong intellectual property protection is not unique—countries like the U.S. and Singapore already offer similar safeguards—the true differentiator for Switzerland should be its commitment to keeping intellectual property free from government militarization. By ensuring that innovation remains independent from state-driven strategic interests, Switzerland can offer a uniquely neutral environment where companies can develop technology without geopolitical interference.