SWA

The aim of SWA is to provide water, sanitation and hygiene for everyone on a long-term basis, as decision-makers bring about local changes through increased political will, better use of funds and targeting of vulnerable population groups.

SWA brings governments and other partners together to commit to a common vision, share experiences, identify gaps, and search for solutions that have been tested and supported by reliable data.

Water has the potential for conflict between different users of water - this conflict potential is particularly evident in times of pandemics. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, SWA has organized virtual seminars on COVID-19 and provided educational work. This culminated in a global call for action in May 2020, which was signed by heads of government and ministers including Switzerland, representatives of the private sector, civil society, and international organizations.

This contribution is a unique opportunity to promote resilient water, sanitation and hygiene systems as a fundamental determinant of health and to maintain Switzerland's strong position in the WASH sector.

The opening of an SWA operational office in Geneva will enrich this growing community of global water players and enable SWA to work more closely with key human rights and public health actors based in Geneva.