Request to offer the Federal Security Officer (FSB/SFB) professional diploma in English

The Swiss security industry relies heavily on an international workforce. Many dedicated professionals speak good conversational German, French, or Italian but may struggle with the academic-level language proficiency required for this qualification. Achieving a C1 level in a foreign language requires considerable time and resources, and many experienced professionals are therefore unable to access training that could directly improve their knowledge and performance.

By making the FSB/SFB qualification available in English alongside Switzerland’s national languages, we would not lower standards. We would simply make high-quality professional education accessible to more capable security officers.

Better-trained officers mean better prevention, better decision-making, better protection of critical infrastructure, and ultimately safer workplaces and communities. In a crisis, this knowledge can save the lives of clients, members of the public, and the officers themselves.

We respectfully request that VSSU, in cooperation with SERI/SBFI, initiate:

• Official English-language learning and exam materials
• The option to complete written examinations in English
• A clear and realistic implementation roadmap

Switzerland has become a major hub for international technology companies and critical infrastructure. Global firms such as Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Meta, and IBM are investing billions of Swiss francs in infrastructure, operations, and long-term growth in Switzerland. In these international environments, English is commonly used as the working language.

Security professionals working in critical infrastructure sites and high-occupancy venues are expected to follow international standards, communicate clearly under pressure, and respond effectively to emergencies. Yet the Federal professional qualification for security officers (FSB/SFB) is currently offered only in German, French, and Italian. While these languages are essential and should remain available, the absence of an English option creates a barrier for professionals who operate daily in English-speaking environments.