A safety operation running smoothly
It was 15 May 2025, and the Federal Supreme Court was celebrating its 150th anniversary in Lausanne with fedpol on hand to ensure the security of this event and its guests.
The official ceremony marking the 150th anniversary of the Federal Supreme Court (FSC) in Lausanne was about to begin at 6.15pm, as that warm day of 15 May 2025 drew to a close. The moment represented the culmination of several weeks of intense preparation for fedpol. Pascal, the head of operations deployed on site with around fifteen of his colleagues from the Federal Security Service (FSS), was not, however, focussed on the celebrations. Concentration is essential to ensure the security of this high-level event.
Close collaboration required
Flashback. Two months before the day of the event, an official request from the Federal Supreme Court reached fedpol. The judicial authority, which was preparing to celebrate its jubilee in its imposing Mon-Repos building, wanted fedpol to take charge of implementing the FSC’s internal security during this anniversary ceremony. Some 200 Swiss and foreign dignitaries were expected to attend. Although there was sufficient time to carry out this mandate, the challenges were numerous for Pascal and his colleagues, who were usually responsible for the security of buildings in the heart of federal Bern. Nevertheless, in the event of a formal request, other federal buildings can benefit from fedpol protection (see box below).
The main challenge was to develop a plan capable of ensuring the protection and surveillance of a building they were unfamiliar with. In addition, close cooperation had to be established with various partners, such as, in this case, the Vaud Cantonal Police or the Federal Supreme Court’s security service. Added to these unknowns, was the protection of the judges attending this event, which also falls within the remit of the SFS. Over the weeks, through meetings and discussions, the internal security system finally took shape.
The importance of details
This long-term effort involved, in particular, a detailed review of the ceremony programme and the identification of what Pascal calls potential ‘points of concern’. In short, the goal was to leave nothing to chance in order to avoid any unpleasant surprises when the time came. This coordination work also required the establishment of a chain of command in the event of an accident or major incident, including a terrorist attack. All possible scenarios were then reviewed. There were many questions: Should we search the staff responsible for food deliveries, the children in the choir, or even the instruments of the marching band that will be performing during the celebrations? Every decision had to be weighed up. A delicate balance had to be struck between the need to ensure the security of a protected site and the smooth running of the event.
When the big day arrived, all that preparation finally paid off. With the exception of one person suffering from heatstroke, there were no disruptions to the ceremony. Shortly before midnight, Pascal and his colleagues wrapped up a very long day of work, tired, but with a sense of accomplishment.
Federal buildings under tight security
You can’t miss them if you’re walking near the Parliament Building in Bern. fedpol’s armed police security personnel wear blue uniforms, a clearly visible badge on the left arm and the words ‘Police fedpol’ on their back. This protection mission at the heart of Swiss democracy is a top priority for fedpol. Other buildings in the federal capital of Bern, including the Federal Palace West, East, North, and Inselgasse wings, as well as the Bernerhof, the seat of the Federal Council, and the Federal Palace Media Centre, are also protected by fedpol.
Upon formal request, other federal buildings may be provided with protection, as was the case in May 2025 during the official ceremony at the Federal Supreme Court in Lausanne. In all cases, this protection is provided by fedpol in close cooperation with the cantonal and municipal police forces. As part of its mandate, fedpol is also responsible for ensuring the security of foreign diplomatic missions in Switzerland.
“What I take away from this commitment is the importance of preparation, as well as the quality of cooperation between the partners involved. In a project like this, it is crucial to listen to their wishes and needs.”
Pascal, project manager
Security measures on the rise due to global political conflicts