The OECD's peer reviews are carried out every six years and provide an analysis and recommendations regarding the working methods, strategic orientation, financing and effectiveness of the international cooperation activities of a DAC member country. The new report on Switzerland highlights that the SDC and SECO are coordinating their work more effectively, humanitarian aid and development cooperation have been more closely linked and the existing system for measuring impact has been further developed. The instruments of the FDFA's Peace and Human Rights Division (PHRD) are mentioned as exemplary.
According to the report, the strengths of Swiss international cooperation compared to other countries include the long-term orientation of Swiss programmes in unstable contexts and the expertise of its staff. It also highlights the positive geographical focus adopted following the SDC's withdrawal from bilateral development cooperation in Latin America.
The DAC recommends that Switzerland provide 0.5% of its gross national income for official development assistance by 2030. It is also recommended that more financial resources be used in favour of the poorest countries. The report also sees potential for improvement in the recruitment and retention of specialist staff in crisis situations. Going forward, the results of evaluations should also be incorporated into the planning and implementation of projects in an even more targeted manner. Lastly, closer coordination between the SDC and SECO in cooperation with the private sector is proposed. The report also recommends that the principle of untied aid be maintained, particularly in the Ukraine country programme, and that development policy coherence be further strengthened.
The SDC, SECO and the PHRD have responded to the report in a statement. The federal agencies responsible for international cooperation accept most of the recommendations and take note of four of them (ODA/GNI ratio, communication, untied aid and policy coherence). The statement clarifies various aspects and explains that certain recommendations go beyond international cooperation.
As part of the peer review, a delegation from the OECD visited Switzerland in October 2024. Discussions were held with Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, representatives of the SDC, SECO, the PHRD, Parliament, other federal agencies, civil society and the private sector. The delegation also visited Zimbabwe and South Africa to find out about the implementation of Swiss programmes.
Link
Address for enquiries:
EAER Information Service +41 58 462 20 07 info@gs-wbf.admin.ch
