Poverty in old age is not uncommon – people over the age of 65 are more often affected by poverty.
Poverty in old age is not uncommon – people over the age of 65 are more often affected by poverty.

Poverty reduction 

Every twelfth person in Switzerland lives in poverty. 

More than 700'000 people are affected by poverty in Switzerland. Many others subsist just above the poverty line. They have to rely on support to secure their livelihood. But it is about more than financial issues. The Caritas projects also encourage participation in social life and create more scope for action for people affected by poverty. All the services and measures contribute to a Switzerland without poverty.  

Themes

Poverty reduction in Switzerland 

A good life for all 

A Switzerland without poverty is possible, but not a reality today. Every twelfth person in Switzerland lives in poverty. It is mainly due to the social, political and economic framework conditions that result in people being affected by or at risk of poverty Caritas fights, alleviates and prevents poverty. 

Facts about poverty reduction

184881

people

have a KulturLegi and thus have discount for culture and sport

(2023)

442

volunteers

support disadvantaged children

(2023)

3667

advice sessions

could be conducted by the Caritas debt advice service

(2023)

128

mountain farmer families

received 1'198 weeks of support from 909 Caritas volunteers

(2023)

News and stories Contributions in focus

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Selected projects Commitment to a Switzerland without poverty 

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More information

Header image: Poverty in old age is not uncommon – people over the age of 65 are more often affected by poverty. © Alexandra Wey