Swiss politicians want to massively reduce contributions for development cooperation. This is a lack of solidarity and will affect the poorest, says the umbrella organization of Swiss Protestant organizations.
The Federal Council has already earmarked CHF 1.5 billion for aid to Ukraine - from the budget for international cooperation (Mission 21 reported). Parliament is now facing the threat of further cuts to funding for international cooperation due to austerity measures and the rearmament of the army. Parliament will discuss the international cooperation strategy and the 2025 budget in the fall and winter sessions.
"We must now shake Parliament awake and stop the impending slash-and-burn," says KoGe, which also includes Mission 21. KoGe supports the Alliance Sud campaign #MoreSolidarityNow. With a "Solidarity Alert", Alliance Sud draws attention to the fact that it is irresponsible to make savings for the poorest people now of all times.
Do not play off suffering against each other
While aid for Ukraine is undoubtedly necessary, the money should not be spent at the expense of development cooperation, Alliance Sud continues: "Instead, Switzerland should provide additional funds for the important Ukraine aid without cutting back on existing development cooperation. This is not only a viable option, but is even provided for in the constitution for extraordinary situations, such as in the event of war in Europe."
â–º Alliance Sud's "Solidarity Alert" website (opportunity to make a statement)
