Swisscontact 2024: A Look at the Highlights in Images

07.01.2025

From transformative projects to unforgettable events, we invite you to explore Swisscontact's most significant milestones of 2024, captured in a selection of images that showcase our work towards sustainable development.

Colombia

Circular Cities Project, funded by the City of Zurich.

We are driving change towards more inclusive and sustainable waste management in Cali, Colombia, through the Circular Cities project. More than 100 individuals promoting proper solid waste management behaviors now have advanced communication tools to raise awareness and educate the public. This effort, part of an international collaboration with the City of Zurich and Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, is transforming waste management systems, fostering cleaner and more sustainable communities while promoting social inclusion in the process.

El Salvador

Perspectivas Project, funded by German Cooperation through the KFW Development Bank, executed by the Central American Social Integration Secretariat with the support of Swisscontact, as part of the alliance between the Federal Republic of Germany and the SICA Region.

We are transforming technical training in El Salvador through an innovative technological solution: virtual reality. This approach provides returning migrants with a unique opportunity to acquire highly competitive technical skills, regardless of their location or resources. Using immersive simulations, participants can practice in a safe and controlled environment, enhancing their preparedness and confidence to face labor market challenges. This training not only strengthens their employability but also promotes effective socioeconomic reintegration, granting them access to quality jobs in key sectors.

Honduras

Paraíso Verde Project, funded by the European Union.

We contribute to reducing inequality in rural areas of Honduras by ensuring that more women have access to better opportunities. This approach not only strengthens women's empowerment but also promotes greater food security and fair and sustainable development for rural communities. Ninfa Lanza, a rural leader from Azabache, El Paraíso, is an inspiring example of how women are at the forefront of sustainable agriculture. Through the Arca de Esperanza biofactory and the implementation of ecological practices, she has improved her crop productivity and significantly contributed to decarbonization, demonstrating the essential role of rural women in combating climate change and building a greener future.

Peru

VIPRO – Progressive Housing Project, funded by the Hilti Foundation.

We help promote safer and more resilient constructions by strengthening the technical skills of construction workers, aiming to benefit families living in high-risk areas. Through specialized training in structural reinforcement, we incorporate the use of metal detectors—key tools for identifying critical elements in buildings. This improves precision in structural interventions and significantly reduces the vulnerability of housing in peri-urban areas of Peru, fostering safer and more sustainable communities.

Guatemala

Sustainable Maya Landscapes, sponsored by the Embassy of Sweden in Guatemala.

By providing supplies, seeds, and seedlings to the women producers of the Integral Forestry Association San Andrés, Petén (AFISAP), we are supporting the creation of home gardens that transform community life in Petén. These gardens not only significantly improve food security by allowing families to grow their own fresh and healthy food, but they also generate additional income through the sale of surplus produce. This impact goes beyond economic benefits, fostering community collaboration, promoting education on healthy habits, and strengthening the connection with nature, all within a sustainable and inclusive development framework for the region.

Bolivia

Recycling Markets Project, funded by the Republic and Canton of Geneva, the Esperanza Foundation, and the 3rd Millennium Foundation, among other donors. Part of the Swisscontact Development Program, co-financed by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

We have strengthened the business ecosystem of 30 green enterprises in Bolivia, located in Santa Cruz, Cochabamba, and La Paz, with the support of allied institutions that provide services such as awareness-raising, business development, and advisory on regulatory frameworks, ensuring the long-term sustainability of these projects. This collaboration has facilitated the repurposing of waste from the automotive sector, such as scrap metal, lead-acid batteries, tires, and plastic, transforming them into raw materials for the production of new products within a circular economy model. In this way, we contribute to waste reduction and the promotion of more sustainable development in the country.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Reflection and Action on International Migrants Day

18.12.2024

International Migrants Day invites us to highlight initiatives that work to ensure the dignity, rights, and well-being of migrants around the world.

One of the most outstanding initiatives we are implementing in the region is the Regional Protection and Migration Program, which leads key efforts in various strategic areas. This program, funded by the Swiss Cooperation (COSUDE), is a fundamental pillar in addressing the challenges of human mobility in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru through concrete actions that make a difference.

Main Efforts of the Program

The program focuses on three priority areas that are crucial to transforming the migration experience:

• Knowledge Management
  It promotes the exchange of experiences and learning among different actors, strengthening humanitarian responses. This ensures that migrants' needs are met effectively and empathetically, making a real impact on the lives of those facing adverse conditions on their migration journey.
• Dialogue Spaces
  It facilitates meetings between key stakeholders, including governments, community organizations, and civil society, to build coordinated and sustainable responses to migration challenges. These spaces are essential for generating collaborative solutions that consider diverse perspectives and needs.
• Public Policy Support
  It works on creating and strengthening laws and regulations that protect migrants' rights. These policies, based on evidence and adapted to the regional context, are essential tools to ensure the protection and integration of migrants.

Finally, a key milestone in this effort is the launch of this digital platform for the Regional Protection and Migration Program.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dual Education: Transforming Colombia’s Workforce Future

05.12.2024

Dual education to bridge the gap between training and employment. With the private sector as an ally, we seek to align skills with labor market needs.

Colombia is writing a decisive chapter in the history of education and employment, tackling the challenges of today's labor market, such as the disconnect between the skills taught by the education system and the needs of businesses. An ambitious dual education strategy, with the private sector as a key partner, is paving the way for greater competitiveness and sustainable development.

Cali, a Hub of Transformation

Launch of three dual training programs in Cali, Colombia.

The city of Cali shines as a center of innovation. This year, it not only hosted the Conference of the Parties (COP16), but also became, for the first time, the setting where 60 workers from leading companies in Valle del Cauca—such as Ingenio Mayagüez, Ingenio Riopaila-Castilla, Colombina, and Harinera del Valle—will receive certifications in dual training programs.

These programs, which combine theoretical learning with hands-on experience within companies, represent a transformative step toward aligning education with real industry demands.

The Power of "Learning by Doing"

Colombia’s strong commitment to dual training is part of a pilot project led by Swisscontact through the Colombia + Competitiva initiative, financed by the Swiss government's State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).

With a duration of 150 hours each, these programs not only enhance participants’ technical skills but also develop their socio-emotional abilities, boosting both employability and business productivity.

The pilot programs cover strategic sectors and renowned companies in Colombia:

• Maintenance and repair of agricultural machinery (Ingenio Mayagüez and Ingenio Riopaila-Castilla).
• Autonomous confectionery operator (Colombina).
• Autonomous milling operator (Harinera del Valle).

The initiative is supported by institutions such as Universidad Autónoma de Occidente (UAO), Politécnico Internacional de Occidente (PIO), Politécnico Empresarial Colombiano (PEC), and Institución Universitaria Antonio José Camacho (UNIAJC), as well as regional actors like Compromiso Valle, Propacífico, and Comfandi, along with national partners such as Confecámaras and the Private Council for Competitiveness (CPC).

Additionally, regional allies such as Compromiso Valle, Propacífico, Comfandi, Comfenalco, and the Cali Secretariat of Economic Development, as well as national partners like Confecámaras and the Private Council for Competitiveness (CPC), are participating.

Swiss Inspiration, Colombian Potential

The dual education model, rooted in Switzerland, combines theoretical and practical training—a strategy that has made the European country a global leader in innovation and knowledge. With an investment of 6% of its GDP in education, Switzerland serves as an example of how collaboration between the education and business sectors can create a more efficient and competitive workforce ecosystem.

Swisscontact has sparked interest among many Colombian companies eager to learn more about the impact and lessons from the dual training pilot implemented in the country. This pioneering program is demonstrating how collaboration between businesses, universities, and government entities can foster a more applied education system aligned with labor market needs.

Colombia is moving towards this model with the goal of strengthening local capacities, promoting sustainable development, and preparing future generations for an ever-evolving job market.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Key Communication for Humanitarian Aid

05.11.2024

Crisis management, spokesperson training, and media relations are the topics that Swisscontact, through the PRPM funded by COSUDE, is addressing in training sessions for humanitarian aid operators in migration.

The role of humanitarian operators has evolved significantly. Today, these professionals must go beyond material assistance; skills such as strategic communication, crisis management, media relations, and institutional representation are essential to meet the needs of vulnerable populations, such as migrants. In a two-session workshop, Swisscontact, through the Regional Protection and Migration Program (PRPM) funded by COSUDE, trained humanitarian organization operators in Colombia to strengthen these competencies.

Crisis Management: Acting Under Pressure

Humanitarian crises are complex and dynamic events that require quick and effective responses. Humanitarian aid specialists must be prepared to face high-pressure situations and make difficult decisions in real time. Crisis management involves:

• Situation Analysis: Identifying risks, assessing needs, and defining priorities.
• Response Planning: Developing a clear and concise action plan.
• Team Coordination: Working together to implement the action plan.
• Strategic Communication: Keeping stakeholders and the general public informed.

Spokesperson Role: The Face of Humanitarian Aid

Spokespersons for humanitarian organizations are responsible for representing their organization before the media and the public. A good spokesperson must be able to:

• Clarity: Convey information directly, avoiding technical jargon or complex language to ensure understanding.
• Credibility and Consistency: Communicate in alignment with the organization's values and messages to earn public trust.
• Message Mastery: Have in-depth knowledge of the information and context, allowing them to respond confidently and adapt to different audiences.
• Empathy and Connection: Actively listen, show sensitivity to public concerns, and adapt their tone to create a genuine connection.
• Emotional Control: Stay calm under pressure, especially in crises, and avoid impulsive or defensive reactions.
• Adaptability: Adjust the message depending on the medium or situation, whether in interviews, press conferences, or social media, to maximize impact.
• Preparation and Practice: Rehearse beforehand, anticipate difficult questions, understand the media, and stay informed on relevant current issues.

Media Relations: Building Strong Partnerships

Media management is a fundamental component of humanitarian communication. Operators must proactively engage with the media to ensure the right information reaches the public at the right time. This involves:

• Developing a Media Plan: Creating a communication strategy that defines key messages, target audiences, and communication channels.
• Building Relationships with Journalists: Establishing trust and mutual respect with the media to facilitate more balanced and fair coverage of humanitarian interventions.
• Generating Press Materials and Interviews: Providing valuable content to the media. Offering journalists access to the organization's spokespersons to share updated and relevant information about activities and achievements.

📥 Practical Guide on Spokesperson Training, Media Relations, and Crisis Management: Download

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Girls on the Move: The Urgent Need for Coordinated Action in the Region

10.10.2024

We improve support for migrants, especially girls, by promoting inclusive policies and strengthening humanitarian protection through dialogue and best practices.

Migration in Latin America has reached critical levels, driven by violence, poverty, and political crises. Among migrants and displaced people, girls and adolescent girls account for 20% of female mobility, according to UNDP (2020). However, their needs remain largely ignored.

Vulnerability: A Daily Reality

Migrant girls, especially those traveling alone or with small children, face enormous dangers: labor exploitation, sexual violence, and human trafficking. These threats, combined with the fear of deportation or family separation, limit their access to essential services such as healthcare and education, leaving them even more vulnerable, according to the UNICEF and HIAS Policy Brief.

The severity of this situation calls for urgent regional initiatives to protect migrant and refugee girls. This is precisely the focus of the Regional Protection and Migration Program (PRPM).

"Given the harsh conditions of migration routes, where girls, adolescents, and women are especially vulnerable, Switzerland, through its regional program, provides protection and assistance to 35,520 people, most of whom are minors and women."
Christophe Rochat, COSUDE Protection Program Officer in Colombia

Regional Progress: Significant Achievements, but Still Insufficient

Through PRPM, we have identified best practices aimed at addressing this issue.

• Ecuador: The "Comprehensive Care Protocol for Non-National Children and Adolescents in Human Mobility Contexts" (2022) establishes clear guidelines to ensure access to protection services and the full exercise of their rights.
• Peru: The recent approval of the "Special Protection Units Protocol" has been a crucial step in assisting migrant minors at risk of family separation.
• Colombia and Venezuela: Organizations such as REACH are conducting assessments to determine the impact of migration on Venezuelan girls and adolescents. These assessments involve direct consultations with minors, enabling the development of more effective and tailored strategies.

Despite these advances, the response remains insufficient. Coordinated action among countries is essential to ensure the safety and rights of migrant girls.