The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) is the agency for international cooperation of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). Swiss international cooperation, which is an integral part of the Federal Council's foreign policy, aims to contribute to a world without poverty and in peace, for sustainable development.
SDC’s international cooperation strategy is a foreign policy framework for Switzerland, based on the Federal Constitution, to alleviate need and poverty worldwide, improve respect for human rights, promote democracy and protect the environment. The following thematic priorities have been set for 2021–24:
- creating decent local jobs
- addressing climate change
- reducing the causes of forced and irregular migration
- promoting the rule of law
The Federal Council seeks to increase the impact of international cooperation through these four priorities, a focus on specific regions, innovation and the use of digital technologies. This new approach will also give Switzerland greater flexibility in responding to crises and opportunities.
SDC’s research cooperation is guided by a spirit of partnership. The eleven principles developed by the Commission for Research Partnerships with Developing Countries (KFPE) serve as reference framework.
Take a look at the overview of SDC’s research activities here.