The Swiss Cooperation Strategy for Ukraine 2015–2018 (extended for 2019) was jointly prepared by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and the Directorate of Political Affairs (DP).
The current strategy builds on positive results achieved in the past and addresses new emerging challenges. It also builds on the engagement and initiatives launched during the Swiss Chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in 2014. With this strategy, Switzerland intends to contribute to crucial institutional reforms and to promote socio-economic development while working on addressing the causes of the current conflict and alleviating its consequences. In doing so, special attention will be paid to ensuring sustainability and, whenever possible, inclusiveness of supported activities. Furthermore, a stronger focus will be put on conflict-affected areas and particular consideration will be given to the most vulnerable.
The strategy contains four main programme components. The first aims to support inclusive decentralisation reforms and contribute to a de-escalation and resolution of the conflict; the second focuses on strengthening the primary health care services and supporting the reform of the health sector; the third supports the development of a sustainable and efficient energy management system and urban-planning mechanisms; and the fourth is geared towards strengthening sustainable economic development. In addition, Switzerland will respond to pressing humanitarian needs resulting from the conflict.
