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Development policy

Political article

Who is afraid of the NGOs?

The Responsible Business Initiative failed in November because of a majority vote by the cantons, conservative economic associations could heave a sigh of relief. The backlash came nonetheless: Chronicle of a political attack on NGOs.

Political article

Swiss democracy needs a strong civil society

Today more than ever, we need a strong civil society – for the sake of effective development cooperation, for pro-development rules and regulations in the world economy, and for a vibrant democracy.

Article as analysis

What does “sustainability” really mean?

Reflections on an overused concept, the aspirations of which are controversial even in academia. A change of paradigm is needed.

Article as analysis

The “Shadow Pandemic” and its Effects on the SDGs

The increase in gender-based violence during lockdowns, labelled the “shadow pandemic” by the UN, threatens the lives and livelihoods of women and girls in Nigeria. There is a need for collective action, writes Oladosu Adenike Titilope.

Article as analysis

"The local people always know their needs best"

Patricia Danzi took over as head of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) on 1 May, succeeding an FDFA diplomat who had reached the end of his career. In an interview, she lays out some initial priorities.

Political article

Switzerland first? No, thanks!

250 institutions, organizations and associations took part in the first ever public consultation on international cooperation. The verdict: Federal Councillors Cassis and Parmelin must go back to the drawing board.

Political article

Making policy despite the majority

Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis wants to realign Swiss development cooperation. Alliance Sud's central concerns, such as Agenda 2030 and the role of civil society in the global South, are hardly mentioned.

Political article

The men left behind

It is a truism: without open-minded men there can be no progress in the gender debate. But what if, as in Mongolia, men are left behind in matters of education?

Political article

Federal Council reined in

The weapons industry should not be strengthened through facilitated exports to countries undergoing internal conflict. Arms exports and development are hardly compatible.