http://www.solidar.ch/en/
Solidar Switzerland: Committed to a fairer society socially, politically and economically. With over 50 projects in 12 countries and campaigns in Switzerland.
1.5 billion people are being exploited worldwide. 1.75 billion people live in poverty. This needs to change. But for change to happen, these people need to be able to earn a living wage. Their fundamental rights must be respected. They must be included in the democratic process.
History has taught us that only those directly affected by precarious living conditions can improve their conditions. But we can support them in their struggle. In this sense Solidar Switzerland sees itself as a partner in development, working to improve living conditions alongside the workers and farmers, the unemployed and landless, alongside labour unions and grassroots organisations.
Projects in developing and emerging countries
In the poorest countries of Africa and Latin America, and in emerging countries such as South Africa or China, we are committed to creating decent working conditions a living wage, democracy, and respect for human rights. In the event of a disaster we provide humanitarian aid.
We are also present in South-eastern Europe where our programmes are designed to improve working conditions with a focus on establishing social partnership structures.
Switzerland's attitude needs to change
To overcome poverty worldwide, the world's rich industrial nations including Switzerland need to change their attitude. Solidar Switzerland campaigns for Swiss economic and foreign policies to respect human rights.
One current example is the "Solidar Council Rating", an instrument that enables Swiss municipal governments to combine a global outlook with local action. The "Solidar Council Rating" is an effective way of supporting the fight for basic labour rights in developing and emerging countries.