HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation is one of the most experienced and largest development organisations in Switzerland. It came into existence on 1 July 2011 with the merger of two organisations: Helvetas (founded 1955) and Intercooperation (founded 1982).
As a politically and denominationally neutral association, HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation is supported by over 100,000 members and sponsors as well as 12 regional groups of volunteers. Over 1200 local and 60 international employees (mainly Swiss) are engaged in 30 partner countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe.
In Bhutan, the Swiss engagement dates back to the 1950s and is founded on a personal relationship. Since 1975, most Swiss sponsored activities have been implemented through HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation Bhutan. HELVETAS Bhutan operates from a Programme Office in Thimphu to implement projects, engage in policy dialogue and provide advisory services. HELVETAS Bhutan focuses its activities on 3 Working Areas: Skills Development and Education, Rural Economy and Governance and Peace, with some activities in the areas of Water and Infrastructure and Environment and Climate Change.
HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation Bhutan’s Mission is to build on opportunities arising from the democratisation process by creating spaces for disadvantaged people and by promoting equitable share in social and economic benefits.
HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation Bhutan promotes inclusive and sustainable development, and the protection of economic, social, political and cultural rights to effectively address the root causes of poverty. By building capacities, strengthening local structures, sharing knowledge across networks and rendering technical assistance through local partners, HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation Bhutan empowers local communities to take the lead in their community development.
