International Cooperation: Expertise and Approaches

Learn more about Caritas Switzerland's approaches and expertise in the areas of international cooperation and humanitarian action. On this page, we provide in-depth information on evidence-based learning, evaluations, tools, and program insights.

IncomeCreating Sustainable Opportunities

Unemployment and underemployment are major drivers of poverty. Caritas Switzerland accompanies economically disadvantaged people find their way out of poverty through access to work and markets. Through partnerships with the private sector, the promotion of employability, and vocational training, Caritas Switzerland increases participants’ incomes and savings, thereby reducing their dependence on assistance.

• Thematic Papers on Income

• White Paper on MSD and Graduation Approach

• Our Work in the Areas of Income, Nutrition, and Education

ClimateSupporting adaptation to climate change

Unprecedented droughts, floods, record-breaking temperatures, wildfires, and rising sea levels make it clear: Human-induced climate change is a reality and has evolved into a global climate crisis. Caritas Switzerland supports people in the hardest-hit regions in their efforts to sustainably combat poverty amid worsening climate conditions. Building on decades of experience, Caritas Switzerland is strengthening its efforts to help communities adapt their livelihoods and resources. The focus is on projects related to climate resilience, food security, the sustainable use of water, soil, and forests, as well as disaster risk reduction (DRR).

• Thematic Papers on Climate

• Our Work in the Area of Climate

Humanitarian ActionStanding by People in Need

Caritas Switzerland has been advocating for the «double nexus» approach to humanitarian action and development since 2000. In its 2025–2028 program strategy, it expands this to the HDP – or «triple nexus» – which links humanitarian action, development, and peace. This approach creates coherence and synergies between short-term emergency aid and long-term development programs. In this way, Caritas Switzerland can address acute needs, reduce structural and economic vulnerabilities, and strengthen climate resilience. Collaboration with local, national, and institutional partners is being systematically expanded to effectively implement the HDP Nexus.

• Thematic Papers on Humanitarian Action

• Our Work in the Area of Humanitarian Action

MigrationRespecting human dignity

Caritas Switzerland has been active in the field of migration for decades, both nationally and internationally. Its support covers all phases of migration: before migration, during migration, upon arrival, and after voluntary or forced return – in countries of origin, transit, and destination. The goal is to transform migration challenges into opportunities for development, to safeguard rights and social participation, and to promote protection, well-being, and resilience. In this way, Caritas Switzerland helps create a more just and inclusive world for migrants, host communities, and regions of origin.

• Thematic Papers on Migration

• Our Work in the Area of Migration

Pages on our Graduation Approach and Specialised Protection will follow.

Knowledge and Quality Management for International Cooperation at Caritas Switzerland

Strengthen thematic knowledge, promote evidence-informed programming and create opportunities to learn from one another: Through knowledge sharing and cross-country collaboration, we help ensure that lessons learned in one context can benefit projects around the world.

• Knowledge and Quality Management (KQM) in International Cooperation

• Locally Led Action at Caritas Switzerland

• Gender Mainstreaming at Caritas Switzerland

• Caritas Switzerland's Approach to the Triple Nexus

Get to Know our Knowledge Managers

• Caritas Switzerland's Engagement and Projects Worldwide

Header image: Meeting in Cambodia © Nicolas Honoré