Switzerland and the UAE have experienced very different phases of violence and conflict over the last 50 years. Switzerland, with its policy of armed neutrality, has escaped international wars, civil wars, or any notable incidences of terrorism. It has maintained its neutrality in international conflicts as a way to escape violence. Despite some protests and civil disturbances, such as the anti-nuclear demonstrations of the 1980s, it is to be noted that generally meetings have been peaceful, violence notwithstanding. The government’s internal security measures and their neutral stance have helped undeniable as being impacted during any international conflict or terrorism.

In contrast, the UAE engaged itself in several conflicts, both national and regional. Perhaps the most remarkable was its participation in the Gulf War from 1990 to 1991 when the UAE threw in its lot with the U.S.-led coalition to liberate Kuwait from the Iraq invasion. Since 2015, it has indeed been more directly entangled in the Yemen Civil War, supporting Saudi Arabia’s coalition against the Houthi rebels. This entanglement has brought with it notable violence and severe humanitarian issues. Besides, it has been imperiled by the likes of the ISIS and Al-Qaeda terrorist groups, especially regarding its military involvements in the region.

While the UAE did not encounter civil war or serious internal conflict, it engaged in political repression against oppositionist groups. The government represses dissidents, especially those put forward by the Muslim Brotherhood, besides using security forces to keep the regime stable. Besides inviting violence with military activities abroad, particularly in Yemen, the UAE does not face broad-based instability at home.

In summary, Switzerland, generally peaceful and neutral, has managed to steer clear of direct involvement in military conflicts, while the UAE has been involved in and continues to face threats of terror from such regional military actions. The two experiences cater to the existential characteristics of contrasting histories contributing to different contexts.