Military Sports as an International Bridge

An Interview with Major General Stephan Christen, Deputy Head of Operations Command. Stephan Christen is a man who gets things moving. When he was promoted to Brigadier on January 1, 2017, and took command of the Engineering/Rescue/CBC Training Division, he was faced with not only military challenges but also sporting ones. Elite sports were part of his responsibility – and it was precisely this area that made him a key figure in Switzerland's successful bid for the 5th CISM Winter Military World Games.

3/27/2025

A project that started with initial discussions in 2019 and was awarded in June 2021. Now, against the stunning backdrop of the snow-covered Alps, Christen reflects on the experience so far.

“Without the Militia, this would not have been possible.”

Engelberg has transformed into a stage for athletic ambition and military unity – and Christen is thrilled: “Without the support of the militia, this event would not have been possible.” He is especially impressed by the commitment of those who are no longer on active duty but voluntarily remilitarized to be part of these Games. “The personal commitment is incredibly palpable,” he says with admiration. For the participating soldiers, this is an extraordinary refresher course – when else does one get the opportunity to combine sports, camaraderie, and service in an international environment?

An exemplary event without megalomania

Christen is fully convinced by the organization of the Winter Games. “The event is perfectly organized,” he says with visible pride. It wasn’t about extravagance but rather a clear vision: The CISM Military World Winter Games were not meant to be a spectacle of megalomania, but an exemplary multisport event – climate-friendly, efficient, and modest in the best Swiss tradition. “And that's exactly what we've achieved.”

More than just sports: international cooperation at a new level

But the Winter Games have an even deeper meaning. Beyond the sports competition, they foster international exchange between military units. “The spirit developing here among the nations is simply fantastic,” says Christen. It was especially important to him that Switzerland not only hosts but also contributes – a signal of appreciation to the international community. These Games are also important from a security policy perspective: They create connections that are of great importance in an increasingly complex world.