Development cooperation

"I'm working at SWISSAID because I genuinely believe that waking up everyday to support the fight towards social justice, community empowerment and against climate change is worth more than waking up everyday just to pay the rent."

«In West and Central Africa, climate change is increasingly leading to droughts, floods, food insecurity, and water scarcity. To strengthen the self-determination and resilience of farmers in the face of climate change, agroecology and sustainable water management are essential. Working together with our partners on this transformation and developing sustainable solutions motivates me every single day.»

"As someone who has long been aware of the challenges smallholder farmers face, I find SWISSAID's work in promoting agroecological practices deeply inspiring. Seeing how the entire communities thrive is not only powerful - it’s also what makes being part of this journey so fulfilling."

"The diversity of human lives is a source of inspiration; the extent of global injustice a call to action. Together with our partner organisations, we facilitate the participation and perspectives of smallholder farmers and thus lay the groundwork for significant change."

«For me, the question of meaning is essential. By working at SWISSAID, I'm convinced that I'm participating in projects that are relevant and in favour of crucial causes, such as the promotion of agro-ecology and gender equality.»

«Agroecology and gender equality are issues that form the basis for sustainable and equal development of communities. Meeting at eye level with our partners and the people on the ground motivates me every day to find lasting solutions together and to initiate important processes of change.»

"In order for the next generation to inhabit a world that is sustainable and secure, we urgently need to make changes towards more justice, climate and environmental protection. It motivates me that my work at SWISSAID means I can contribute to this, both here in Switzerland and in the partner countries."

"My work at SWISSAID reminds me that building meaningful partnerships around the world helps to make Europe's relationships fairer. And it showcases how important global interconnections are."

"Equal opportunities are an essential prerequisite for the sustainable fight against poverty. SWISSAID supports women directly, but also raises awareness among men and boys. I campaign with conviction against inequalities that restrict rights – whether of women or men."

"What always impresses me when I visit the site: women, farmers and young people in our projects look the SWISSAID team in the eyes, because they feel understood and taken seriously. They know that it is their own project and that they are responsible for its implementation."

"In cooperation with local organisations and our partners in Switzerland, SWISSAID is laying the foundations for many disadvantaged smallholder families to be able to live a dignified and self-determined life in an intact environment. It gives me pleasure to contribute to the solution."

"My work at SWISSAID has confirmed to me that the passion, motivation and perseverance of the people involved are essential factors for the success of development projects. In Tanzania, women farmers with a very low level of education prove this every day."

"Whether it be small farmers in Colombia who join forces to assert their rights with the local authorities or women in Chad who organise themselves to improve their living conditions together: Seeing people take their future into their own hands is my greatest motivation."