LIVE: 60 years of Swiss engagement in a changing world

9 September 2021, 1–3pm (CET, Bern)

Drinking water for Syrian refugees in Lebanon.
Drinking water for Syrian refugees in Lebanon. © FDFA/Diego Ibarra

Fighting poverty and hunger; humanitarian aid; promoting health and education; economic development; global challenges: these are some of the many areas in which Switzerland's international cooperation (IC) is active, and today we celebrate its 60th anniversary. It's a story peppered with countless challenges that demand an unswerving spirit of adaptation and innovation.

Despite much progress, IC today faces a multitude of complex global challenges. These include rising inequality, climate change, the emergence of new conflicts, the rise of authoritarianism, gender-based violence, discrimination and the paring away of human rights. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing challenges and threatens to undermine the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which was agreed with unanimous international support. 

Take a front row seat!

We would be delighted if you could be with us for this global event. Join us live from wherever you happen to be – in the office, at home or on the road – and put your questions directly to our experts on four continents. Participation is free of charge. 

Programme

How up-to-date is international cooperation?

A conversation with Ambassador Patricia Danzi, director general of the SDC 

60 years on – and still much to do?

An interview with Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

From cheese to peace

With its alpine topography, landlocked Nepal is very similar to Switzerland. Peace has prevailed since 2006 in the country, and before COVID-19 it was a popular tourist destination. But the pandemic hit the country hard and a great deal of commitment is still required to ensure the preservation of peace and the safeguarding of human rights. How and where can women provide support for other women?

Cut to live feed from Nepal

Greater protection through identity

Conflicts and social practices in Mali lead to violations of the right to life and physical integrity. The state is weakened and thus unable to guarantee the rights of approximately 2.6 million people in the north and centre of the country. How can rights be better protected?

Cut to live feed from Mali

New prospects for young people

Vocational education and training to combat youth unemployment: how we support young people and their employers on a professional career path. What added value can Switzerland bring to the table?

Cut to live feed from North Macedonia

Tech4Good in the fight against air pollution

Congested streets under dark clouds of smog – a common sight in many major cities around the world. Dense traffic is one of the main causes of greenhouse gas emissions that harm the global climate. Can shared expertise and new technologies make public transport less harmful to health and more sustainable for millions of people?

Cut to live feed from Peru

For the Planet. For the People.

Young people around the globe are taking direct action to ensure life on earth is fit for human beings in the future. Can a million young people be won over?

Cut to live feed of young people who will inspire you with their commitment