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Switzerland publishes its new Cooperation Strategy for the South Caucasus

19 July 2013 10:35 (UTC +04:00)

The strategy defines three core domains where Switzerland will be active. The strategy

builds on past achievements and takes into account new emerging priorities. It brings

together under one common framework the activities of different Swiss government entities active in the region.

The first domain is Economic Development and Employment. Cooperation will focus on

market development for agricultural value chains with an emphasis on enhancing vocational skills and access to finance, improving the framework conditions for the financial and private sectors, and providing livelihood support to vulnerable population groups.

Second, the Governance and Public Services domain will consider the role of sub-national authorities in fostering regional development (incl. disaster management), the strengthening of democratic processes, and the creation of more efficient and accountable institutions.

Third, the Human Security and Protection domain encompasses support to conflict

transformation processes coupled with assistance to cover the basic humanitarian needs of vulnerable population groups which can be increased in case of conflict resurgence or a major natural disaster.

Outside of the three core domains, Switzerland will finance projects addressing labor

migration and regional art and culture projects supporting contemporary art as an important pillar of an inclusive and dynamic society.

Switzerland’s cooperation in the South Caucasus dates back to the early 1990’s.