SwissAI calls for more clarity and competence in dealing with AI

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) can make parliament's work easier. The swissAI association (formerly "KImpact") therefore welcomes the use of AI tools by the federal government because they can make parliament's work easier. However, it recommends careful, confident use. The association, founded in 2023 is committed to a constructive digital future for Switzerland - in harmony with people and technological progress.

SwissAI writes in a press release: "The way in which Microsoft's Copilot was introduced in parliament and in parts of the federal administration, on the other hand, was done without an official decision, without clear governance and without a systematic development of competencies. As a result, two opportunities were missed: a responsible introduction of AI and a credible role model for business and society in dealing with this technology.

The problem: AI introduction without control and without training

As the freelance journalist and MAZ study director Reto Vogt showed in his research for the «NZZ am Sonntag» on 4.1.2026, the activation of Microsoft's Copilot in parliament was effectively carried out autonomously by the American technology company - without an official decision by the federal government, without clear guidelines, without defined responsibilities and without transparency. The introduction took place virtually through the back door. This created a legal and security policy gray area.

Members of parliament and employees of the administration work with sensitive, sometimes confidential information. Nevertheless, no comprehensive training or binding guidelines have been introduced. Anyone who uses AI without understanding how it works, its limitations and risks can neither assume responsibility nor create trust - neither within the institutions nor towards the public.

The use of AI: first and foremost a question of leadership

This situation reveals a fundamental governance problem in dealing with AI. Political institutions need to clarify, whether, for what and under what conditions AI is used. What understanding of digital sovereignty applies? What data may be processed? Who decides on its use - and who bears the responsibility? These questions must be answered politically before technical systems are used productively. This awareness is lacking in many places.

swissAI advises the competent and controlled use of AI

«Our direct democracy depends on trust in state institutions and independence from external influences. AI is a powerful tool that can improve our processes - but only if we ensure transparency, competence and sovereign decision-making channels,» says Chris Beyeler, President of swissAI.

In this case, swissAI recommends a three-stage approach that begins with a fundamental political clarification. As part of a broad dialog, Parliament should define which AI applications are permissible and how Switzerland's digital sovereignty can be safeguarded in the long term. At the same time, the aim is to build up targeted expertise: Through a systematic evaluation of training needs and further training for parliament and the administration tailored to these needs, risks are to be better understood and opportunities proactively exploited. In addition, swissAI emphasizes the involvement of external expertise. Independent specialist bodies should support the technical and ethical evaluation to ensure that the rollout is in line with data protection and Switzerland's fundamental values.

Confidence in dealing with AI

Switzerland has excellent expertise in the field of artificial intelligence. This potential must be exploited - in a coordinated, responsible and sovereign manner. AI can be a locational advantage. However, it must be introduced professionally and not left to chance or licensing mechanisms.

More information: SwissAI