© Helvetas / Simon B.Opladen

Breaking barriers

"My mother used to say there's no such thing as a female builder," said Elizabeth from Tanzania. "I responded, 'Then I will be the first one you see.'" Our projects help youth break barriers and access opportunities.
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© Helvetas / Simon B.Opladen

Helvetas works to alleviate poverty and advance human rights in 30 countries.

© Helvetas / Patrick Rohr

Where We Work

We work alongside local partners to fight poverty in Africa, Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe. Learn more about how we support transitional and developing countries. 

Equal Opportunities

Many people are denied basic rights because of where they were born - a true injustice. Everyone deserves the chance to fulfill their potential. Helvetas is working to create a fairer world with equal opportunities for all.

Annual Report 

Helvetas supported over 5 million people during a global pandemic in 2020, adapting more than 149 projects to help communities alleviate the hardships brought by the coronavirus. 

We reach 5 million people with vital services and information every year. 

Bridges & Roads

We build critical transport infrastructure that helps rural populations get better access to markets, schools and hospitals.
© Axel Fassio

WASH & Water Governance

The most vulnerable communities of the world suffer from dirty water. Every year, we help 500,000 people gain access to clean drinking water and sanitary facilities.

Private Sector Development

Youth need access to reliable, fairly paid jobs to break the cycle of poverty. Helvetas creates partnerships and promotes policies that build more inclusive economies.

Climate & Disaster Resilience

Every year, we support over 1,000,000 people in adapting to climate change, reducing the risks of disasters, sustainably managing natural resources, and conserving nature.

Helvetas supports more than 370 projects working toward sustainable solutions. 

© Helvetas / Christian Bobst
Ethiopia

Suspension Bridges: Lifelines to the World

Madagascar

Clean Drinking Water and Hygiene Make for Good Health

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Helvetas - a partner for true change
Truly changing lives
Change takes place where people have decided to break new ground. Teófilo Caraballo is a prime example: He made it possible for his family to drink clean water from their own tap.