Helvetas Eastern Europe - About Us

Our local teams are active in 11 countries across Eastern Europe. We are committed to enabling systemic change that creates fair opportunities and stronger communities across region.

Independent. Committed. Globally networked.

Helvetas is a leading Swiss organization for development cooperation and humanitarian response – denominationally neutral and politically independent. As an association with a strong membership base in Switzerland, we are committed to a fairer world worldwide. Our sister organizations in the USA and Germany, our membership in Alliance2015, and our sponsorship of Alliance Sud all strengthen our global network. 

 

Our vision

We envision prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable societies across Eastern Europe, where people live in dignity and peace, empowered to determine their own future. Guided by the principles of human rights, social equity, and environmental sustainability, we contribute to transformative change that advances democracy, green transition, and social inclusion in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

 

Our mission

Helvetas Eastern Europe strengthens good governance and creates new economic perspectives by:

  • Enhancing voice, participation, and accountability in democratic institutions and public services.

  • Supporting green and inclusive economic transition through future-oriented skills, private sector development, and job creation.

  • Facilitating systemic change by building conducive eco-systems for long-lasting social and environmental transformation.

  • Acting as a regional knowledge broker that fosters innovation, dialogue, and collaboration across borders.

Our mission is to be a reliable development partner and credible voice in shaping inclusive and sustainable futures for the region.

Our values

Human rights

We promote and protect political, social, economic, environmental and cultural rights for all. 

Self-determination

Our work is based on participatory, self-determined development and humanitarian action in times of crisis.

Equality

We are committed to social justice and fair opportunities, regardless of origin or identity.

Partnership

Our commitment is based on responsibility, cooperation and partnerships worldwide.

Our commitment

Good Governance

In many countries where we operate, people — especially women — have little say in the decisions that affect their lives. Helvetas strengthens their voices, promotes good governance, prevents conflicts and positions migration as an opportunity.

Together with authorities, civil society and the private sector, we enable political participation and strengthen local administrations in the fair provision of public services. We promote inclusive urban development by enhancing the capacities of public institutions and enabling citizen participation in urban planning. At the same time, we foster cohesive societies by building trust, creating spaces for dialogue, preventing the radicalization of youth, and addressing the root causes of conflict.

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Economic Perspectives

Helvetas strengthens vocational education and training (VET) systems to equip young women and men with skills that respond to labor market needs. We enhance career guidance services by building institutional and professional capacities of providers and introducing a community-based model of career guidance, inspired by Swiss best practices and adapted to local contexts.

Together with the private sector, we create pathways to employment and promote sustainable market structures that improve access to decent work. We support women and men to expand their economic opportunities, improve working conditions, and diversify sources of income - for example, in crafts, services, construction, agriculture, or tourism.economic-perspectives

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© Patrick Rohr

Green Transition

The planet faces rising temperatures, biodiversity loss, and increasing pressure on natural resources. Helvetas supports communities and institutions in accelerating the green transition by promoting renewable energy, sustainable practices, and circular economy solutions.

We foster innovation in clean energy, sustainable agriculture, and responsible consumption. We work with local partners to build capacities for waste reduction, energy efficiency, and eco-friendly technologies. Communities are empowered to reduce their environmental footprint, adapt to new green jobs, and strengthen their resilience to climate-related challenges.

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Humanitarian response

The need for humanitarian aid is increasing — primarily due to conflicts and climate-related disasters. Helvetas provides targeted support to people in times of crisis in low- and middle-income countries.  

After disasters such as earthquakes or floods, we deliver rapid aid and ensure basic needs are met with supplies of water, food, hygiene and shelter. At the same time, we help communities to rebuild livelihoods and infrastructure — leading to greater resilience and sustainable development.

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