Swiss expertise will help strengthen Croatia as a centre for research and improve its international connections. Switzerland is financing the establishment of 15 university research partnerships for the duration of the project. Input and funding is helping to modernise the Croatian vocational education and training (VET) system to adapt courses to changing economic needs.

Switzerland supports measures to protect the environment in the Gorski Kotar region of outstanding geographic value in north-west Croatia. Its contribution to EU enlargement is financing the building and expansion of drinking and sewerage systems. Better access to drinking and waste water services will improve the quality of life and encourage sustainable economic growth in the region.

The consequences of the Yugoslav Wars in the 1990s are still felt in many places. Together with Croatia, Switzerland intends to continue the process of demining and integrating the victims of landmines in society and the job market.

Switzerland is financing projects to strengthen civil society and promote partnerships between Swiss and local institutions through two funds. It is providing contributions of up to CHF 250,000 for these projects.