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Switzerland Today

Swiss news in English

Friday, September 20, 2024

Switzerland's Aid Policy Faces Migration Test

Published: 2024-09-11

Switzerland is facing a critical debate over its humanitarian aid policies, as the country grapples with the challenge of managing migration agreements.

The Swiss government has been providing substantial development aid to countries that are not adhering to migration agreements, leading to a political push to link aid to compliance.

This issue has become a focal point in the Swiss Senate, where a proposal to cut aid to non-compliant countries is gaining traction.

The proposal, led by St.

Gallen's Senator Benedikt Würth, suggests reducing aid to countries that refuse to take back their nationals who have been denied asylum in Switzerland.

This move is seen as a response to the growing number of rejected asylum seekers who remain in Switzerland, straining the country's resources.

The debate highlights the tension between Switzerland's humanitarian traditions and the practical challenges of migration management.

The outcome of this proposal could significantly impact Switzerland's foreign aid strategy and its approach to international migration agreements.