SWISSAID
On site – against hunger
SWISSAID has stood for solidarity and an open-minded Switzerland for over 75 years: founded in 1948 as “Swiss European Aid” as a humanitarian solidarity campaign, SWISSAID has been fighting hunger, injustice and poverty in the global South since the 1960s. Today, the non-denominational and non-partisan foundation is active in nine countries in Africa, Latin America and Asia. 80 percent of the approximately 190 employees are local experts who work with the people on the ground to help them help themselves.
The mission
SWISSAID’s vision is a world without hunger, in which even the poorest people can lead a healthy, dignified and self-determined life. The aid organization is committed to an agroecological turnaround in agriculture. It supports people in the Global South in planting diverse seeds, using the soil sparingly and marketing food independently. In this way, SWISSAID also strengthens biodiversity and counteracts climate change.
Women play a central role in overcoming hunger in the long term. Women are responsible for more than three quarters of the world’s food supply and yet are much more frequently affected by malnutrition and undernourishment than men. Breaking down outdated role models, strengthening the rights of women, especially women farmers, and raising awareness among men are important components of SWISSAID projects.
The topics
In addition to the core issues of sustainably overcoming hunger – agroecology and gender equality – Swissaid is committed to the fight against climate change and provides life-saving emergency aid in the event of food crises. SWISSAID is also committed to the fair extraction and trade of raw materials.
The specialties
SWISSAID has gained particular expertise and success in the establishment and dissemination of local seed banks. The protection and availability of indigenous varieties makes a decisive contribution to food security and at the same time strengthens biodiversity.
At a development policy level, SWISSAID represents the interests of people in the global South – locally, internationally and in Switzerland. SWISSAID provides information, raises awareness and works to ensure that Switzerland lives up to its responsibility in its legislation, economic and trade practices and consumer behavior.
The countries
Niger, Chad, Guinea Bissau, Tanzania, India, Myanmar, Nicaragua, Colombia, Ecuador