Kosovo
Kosovo has made progress towards political and economic stability, but these advances remain fragile. It is still one of the poorest countries in Europe. As one of Kosovo’s main partner and donor countries, Switzerland helps strengthen its stability by focusing on democratic governance, inclusive access to high-quality services, climate change adaptation, and migration.
Context Kosovo
Kosovo has made progress towards political and economic stability, but these gains are fragile, and challenges remain, particularly regarding political polarisation. Kosovo is still one of the poorest countries in Europe and has limited environmental protections in place. In 2008, Switzerland was one of the first countries to recognise the Republic of Kosovo and establish diplomatic relations. Since then, Switzerland and Kosovo have built a partnership of trust founded on shared interests. Switzerland is particularly focused on prevention and regional de-escalation. It aims to create a stable political and economic environment that will open new markets and generate investment opportunities.
Democratic governance and peace
Switzerland engages in dialogue with Kosovo to strengthen its institutional capacities and promote democratic governance, human rights and integrity. Its goal is a society with stronger governance, more accountable state institutions and increased citizen participation. Switzerland supports social inclusion and the improvement of relations between communities. It also encourages progress towards the normalisation of relations between Kosovo and Serbia.
Climate change, water and health
Switzerland’s efforts aim to ensure inclusive access to high-quality services while improving the environment and citizens’ quality of life. In healthcare, Switzerland prioritises primary care, integrated health services, and health education to improve the availability, quality and continuity of care. In the water sector, Switzerland promotes reforms with a focus on integrated resource management and wastewater treatment to use resources more efficiently and improve water quality. The projects supported by Switzerland also incorporate climate change adaptation, promote the use of renewable energy, and encourage energy efficiency measures.
Migration
The migration partnership provides a framework for dialogue on migration, focusing on strengthening migration policies and management, particularly in relation to migrants from third countries. Switzerland continues to support the Kosovo government in maintaining relations with the Kosovar diaspora, encouraging its members to be key agents of change while ensuring the effective reintegration of Kosovars returning to their home country.
Approach and main partners
The Swiss cooperation programme for Kosovo is implemented through an interdepartmental approach led by the SDC and the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).
Switzerland’s main partners in Kosovo are:
- National partners: ministries, local governments, and local civil society organisations;
- Swiss non-governmental organisations (NGOs): Helvetas and Swisscontact;
- International companies;
- Multilateral organisations: the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Bank;
- Private sector;
- Think tanks.
Links
- Bilateral relations Switzerland-Kosovo
- Activities of the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) in Kosovo
- Project database
Documents
Swiss cooperation programme Kosovo 2022–2025
Starting with humanitarian assistance in 1998, Switzerland’s cooperation with Kosovo has gradually shifted towards supporting transition processes and progress towards European standards and values. In 2008, Switzerland was one of the first countries to recognize the republic of Kosovo and to establish diplomatic and consular relations. Switzerland and Kosovo have since then developed a trusted partnership based on mutual interests and rooted in the spirit of the cooperation agreements between the two governments.
Information sheet Swiss Neighbourhood Partnerships in the Western Balkans
Contact
Eichenweg 5
3003 Bern