Peace and human rights

Since the Taliban's sudden takeover of power in Afghanistan, the living conditions of millions of Afghans, especially women and girls, have worsened. An alarming example is the Taliban's recent decree banning women from attending universities and working for local and international NGOs. The FDFA is deeply concerned about these developments, not least because female NGO workers are often the only ones who are able to gain access to women and their families.

Since its independence in 2011, South Sudan has been the scene of armed conflicts and humanitarian crises. Almost five years ago, a peace agreement ended the war at the national level. But this peace remains fragile. Tensions persist. Switzerland is active on the ground and focusses on peace policy, development cooperation and humanitarian aid. In the UN Security Council, Switzerland supported the extension of the mandate of the UN mission in South Sudan, which plays a critical role in peace and security.

Two hundred and twenty-two million children and young people around the world are affected by violent conflicts and humanitarian crises. Switzerland is working to protect these children, in the UN Security Council as well as in other bodies and through its international cooperation work. Syrian refugee children in Jordan and Lebanon are just one example of how Switzerland is restoring access to education – a key pillar of sustainable peace and development.

West Africa and the Sahel are home to millions of people facing numerous challenges – climate change, armed conflict, food crises and rising energy costs. Everyone is affected, especially the more vulnerable sections of society. Switzerland's partnership with UNOWAS aims to create prospects. An interview with Carol Mottet of the Peace and Human Rights Division in the FDFA.

This was Switzerland's maxim as it embarked on a year of exchanges with the 95 states and organisations of the Women Peace and Security (WPS) Focal Points Network alongside co-chair South Africa. The network strengthens the role of women in peace processes, and the exchange with its 95 members, including states and organisations, is at the centre of its work. As the year draws to a close, we hear from participants and take a look at some highlights.

The global food crisis is one of the main challenges the world faces today. As is often the case, it is the most vulnerable people who are affected first and suffer disproportionately from its impact. In response, SDC acts in a collaborative and crosscutting manner to mitigate it.