Research, as well as technological, social and political innovation, play an essential role in reducing poverty and global risks. Science creates the basis for a process of transformation towards sustainable development in all parts of the world. In doing so, it contributes to the resolution of development issues, and to progress towards solutions for the future. It questions, analyses, and delivers new findings and science-based recommendations.
International scientific cooperation has a long tradition in Switzerland. The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) has worked for decades with Swiss universities and higher education institutions, as well as many research institutes in Eastern Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America. The SDC primarily supports research initiatives that focus on global challenges such as poverty and hunger, inequality, resource scarcity and environmental changes in low and middle income countries.
The findings and practical approaches generated by research are incorporated into the preparation and implementation of development programmes and projects. They contribute to the effectiveness of international cooperation.
Around CHF 50 million of Switzerland's official development assistance (ODA) budget is invested in development-related research every year.
