Bernd Steimann

Development Policy Coordinator
Bernd Steimann, PhD / MSc

Bernd Steimann is a PhD / MSc geographer and has been working in the field of sustainable development since 2004. Before joining Helvetas in 2011, he led several research projects on rural development and resource use in Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan and examined the Swiss political debate around the Millennium Development Goals. At Helvetas Bernd supports and advises various projects and local partner organisations in Asia, Africa, Latin America and Eastern Europe in advocacy and policy dialogue with decision-makers in politics, business and civil society. At the same time, he represents Helvetas in several political campaigns in Switzerland and coordinates regular exchanges with parliamentarians.

Search all blog
© Helvetas / Christian Bobst

Managing Risks in Advocacy

Helvetas continues to navigate challenging situations and to evolve its advocacy approaches through learning and adaptation.
Written by Archita Faustmann, Bernd Steimann - 21. January 2026

Emergency Exit or Dead End? UN Human Rights Advocacy is at a Crossroads

The United Nations offers pathways for civil society organizations advocating on delicate issues of concern — and organizations like Helvetas have a role to play. But authoritarian spillovers risk damaging the multilateral system.
Written by Bernd Steimann, Archita Faustmann - 12. January 2026
© Helvetas

Putting Policy into Practice: Supporting Irrigation Sector Reforms in Kyrgyzstan

Helvetas demonstrates how advocacy and technical support go hand in hand.
Written by Bernd Steimann - 06. January 2026
© Helvetas

Beyond the Policy Cycle: Advocacy in Places With Restricted Space

Written by Gorana Radovanovic, Csilla Schalbert, Bernd Steimann - 29. August 2024

A victory for human rights

Two thirds of Swiss voters have said NO to the Self-Determination Initiative (SBI) and therefore YES to human rights. Helvetas says 'thank you'!
Written by Bernd Steimann - 26. November 2018

6 Ways to Strengthen Civic Space with Multi-Stakeholder Initiatives

Written by Bernd Steimann, Archita Faustmann - 19. September 2018