Switzerland was among the first countries to recognise Kosovo, Europe’s youngest state, having declared independence in 2008. Since then, the two countries have developed strong ties, built on an active Kosovar diaspora, sustained Swiss humanitarian assistance and development cooperation, close diplomatic relations and Switzerland’s contribution of personnel to the NATO-led international peacekeeping force, KFOR.

Switzerland’s engagement reflects its broader foreign policy commitment to the Western Balkans, aimed at promoting stability, prosperity and the region’s path toward European integration. 

The Cooperation Programme 2026–2029 was jointly developed by:

• the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC),
• the FDFA State Secretariat
• and the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), in consultation with
• the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM).

Involving three Federal Departments, it represents a good example of a Whole-Of-Government Approach. All the institutions closely cooperate in the implementation of the Cooperation Programme through partnerships with government offices, civil society and the private sector, led and coordinated by the Swiss Embassy in Kosovo.

Strategic Orientation of the Swiss Cooperation Programme 2026–2029

In light of Kosovo’s continued progress as an upper-middle-income country and ongoing changes in the country’s context, the Swiss-Kosovar partnership will further mature into a strategic, mutually reinforcing cooperation model. Switzerland’s Cooperation Programme 2026-2029 supports Kosovo in building a peaceful and inclusive society by strengthening public institutions and advancing sustainable development and the green transition. Aligned with Kosovo’s National Development Strategy 2030, the programme is structured around three priority areas.

Democratic Governance and Peace

Firmly aligned with EU reform priorities and emphasising the use of government systems, the Swiss Cooperation Programme supports governance reforms at both central and local levels. Focusing on local governance, municipal financing and performance, it aims to improve accountability and further increase citizen satisfaction. Swiss interventions also support the fight against corruption by fostering institutional cooperation and strengthening capacities to detect and address corruption and financial crime. Furthermore, continued engagement with civil society enables citizens and civic groups to play an active role in public affairs and democratic processes, and fosters women's political participation and gender-responsive governance. Switzerland further promotes a peaceful and inclusive society by strengthening intercommunity relations, supporting inclusive processes for dealing with the past, fostering dialogue and trust between communities, institutions and political representatives – thereby contributing to the normalisation of relations between Kosovo and Serbia.

Sustainable Economic Development and Green Transition   

Switzerland supports Kosovo in building a competitive, inclusive and sustainable economy, in line with regional frameworks such as the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans. To this end, the programme focuses on private-sector development, sustainable management of natural resources and climate-resilient urban development. Swiss interventions contribute to a more dynamic business environment that fosters decent and inclusive jobs. In particular, Switzerland strengthens environmentally responsible business practices, economic governance and framework conditions and innovation through digital finance, intellectual property protection and structured public-private dialogue. In parallel, Switzerland facilitates integrated water resources management and climate-resilient urban development. This programme component aims to improve governance, advance legal reforms and strengthen institutional capacities to deliver more effective and reliable water services. Integrated urban development and mobility solutions further enhance climate-resilient infrastructure, urban liveability and environmental performance, contributing to a more efficient and better-connected urban transportation system.

Equitable Human Development

Switzerland supports Kosovo in strengthening its human capital by promoting equitable access to public services. A key priority is improving health outcomes through a stronger and more sustainable healthcare system. This includes strengthening governance, building institutional capacity and ensuring equitable access to services, with a focus on patient-centred care and non-communicable diseases. Through targeted support to the labour market, Switzerland helps improve employment prospects and better align workforce skills with private-sector needs. Interventions focus on increasing participation, enhancing employability and creating a more enabling environment for job creation. Special attention is given to promoting women’s inclusion, addressing structural barriers and ensuring equal opportunities for all. In addition, Switzerland promotes social cohesion by supporting disadvantaged communities and reducing inequalities, with a particular focus on the Roma, Ashkali and Egyptian communities. These efforts are complemented by support for cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue, thus strengthening the cultural sector and contributing to a more inclusive, cohesive and vibrant society.

Migration Partnership

Switzerland and Kosovo will continue their migration partnership since 2010, built on a structured migration dialogue and jointly developed cooperation measures with the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) to strengthen migration management.

Cross-Cutting Themes

Governance, gender equality and social inclusion are integrated across all areas of Swiss cooperation, contributing to more inclusive policies, stronger public institutions and more equitable access to services and economic opportunities.

The total budget amounts to CHF 64.5 million. This figure may vary depending on evolving circumstances.