Published on 18 August 2026

Priorities for the Swiss CCNR Presidency 2026-2027

The presidency of the Central Commission for the Navigation of the Rhine (CCNR) rotates every two years and gives the presiding Member State the opportunity, together with the four other Member States, to advance key topics for the future. During its presidency, Switzerland has set the following priorities: optimizing the CCNR, strengthening cooperation with the European Union and European river commissions, as well as environment and sustainability, digitalization and safety.

Switzerland is using its presidency to advance sustainability, innovation, safety, international cooperation and the strengthening of the CCNR. — © Agnese Giacomazzi

Optimisation of the CCNR

The Swiss Presidency supports the optimisation of the CCNR Secretariat, in particular by further developing working conditions. A strong and efficient Secretariat will play a key role in tackling the challenges facing the CCNR. The aim is also to strengthen the role of the CCNR, both as an organisation with regulatory powers and as an international centre of excellence for inland navigation. As part of this modernisation process, the CCNR website will also be updated to provide clear and easy access to the Organisation’s various areas of activity.

Strengthening Cooperation with the EU and the River Commissions

The Swiss Presidency will continue to foster cooperation with the European Union (EU). The strengths and advantages of the CCNR and the EU will play a useful role in consolidating inland navigation as an important mode of transport for the future at European level. Switzerland is also committed to continuing the excellent work carried out by CESNI, the European Committee for drawing up standards in the field of inland navigation. Finally, it is essential to ensure good cooperation with the other European river commissions and the UNECE, for example in the field of the carriage of dangerous goods.

Supporting More Environmentally Friendly Inland Navigation

The Swiss Presidency supports all the efforts made to date to ensure a more environmentally friendly inland navigation system. It will continue the work required to revise the CCNR roadmap for reducing inland navigation emissions (greenhouse gases, air pollution). This will include updating the research work, amending the relevant requirements and adopting recommendations relating to innovative vessels. The transition to more environmentally friendly inland navigation will also involve adapting infrastructure and increasing the availability of alternative fuels. The Swiss Presidency will also continue to examine and discuss the possibility of progressive taxation of fossil fuels as well as additional measures to improve sustainability in inland navigation. In addition, Switzerland will encourage further work on an international label to indicate the emission levels of inland navigation vessels. Finally, work related to climate change and low water levels will be a key focus, particularly in the context of efforts to make the Rhine waterway more resilient.

Continuing the Commitment to Innovation

In 2026-2027, the CCNR will pursue its commitment to innovation in the field of digitalisation and automation. Key areas will be the continuation of pilot projects for remote operation and the development of automation, as well as other applications such as river information services (RIS). The Swiss Presidency is also committed to promoting careers in inland navigation, with a view to making them more visible and more attractive. In line with the motto ‘Safety through training’, emphasis will be placed on initial and continuing training. Whether a vessel is operated from the wheelhouse or from the shore, with or without assistance systems, the safety of people and the environment must remain the top priority. Switzerland is therefore committed to promoting high safety standards and the continuous updating of CCNR regulations. The new challenges, particularly in the field of cyber security, will also have to be taken into account.