Jean-Daniel Ruch, born in 1963 in Moutier, Switzerland, is a seasoned Swiss Diplomat with an extensive career dedicated to promoting peace, diplomacy, and international cooperation. He studied international relations at the University of Geneva, laying a strong academic foundation for his distinguished career in Swiss foreign policy. He joined the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs in 1992, and over the years, he held key roles that have shaped his expertise in conflict resolution and international diplomacy.
Jean-Daniel Ruch’s early career saw him serving as a Member of the Swiss delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, where he focused on Eastern Europe during the post-Cold War era. His diplomatic journey took him to Belgrade, where he played a critical role in navigating the complex political dynamics of the Balkans. His expertise in international law and diplomacy further expanded when he became Political Advisor to Carla Del Ponte, the Prosecutor at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, where he contributed to important efforts in international justice.
In 2012, Jean-Daniel Ruch was appointed as Switzerland's Ambassador to Serbia and Montenegro, where he led diplomatic efforts in the region. His tenure in Belgrade was followed by key ambassadorial roles in Tel Aviv from 2016 to 2021 and Ankara from 2021 to 2023, where he strengthened bilateral relations and contributed to Switzerland's diplomatic engagement in the Middle East and the Balkans. His ability to manage sensitive political matters, such as mediating dialogue between conflicting parties, underscores his reputation as a skilled Negotiator.
Throughout his career, Jean-Daniel Ruch has been dedicated to understanding the root causes of conflict and promoting long-term solutions through dialogue and diplomacy. His work has included addressing critical issues in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and the broader international community, reflecting his belief in diplomacy as a means to prevent and resolve global conflicts. His commitment to Swiss values, including neutrality and humanitarianism, has solidified his legacy as one of Switzerland’s prominent diplomats.
