We, Connexio develop, are part of the «Stability in Unstable Times» campaign. About 40 Swiss aid organizations have joined forces to show why international cooperation is important.
International development cooperation has an ambivalent history. Church-based actors, in particular, were long shaped by a missionary self-image that was closely linked to colonialism. Those who «helped» not only brought wells and schools, but often also brought with them the conviction that they represented the true faith, the true culture, and the true order. Cooperation thus became a one-way street—from the top down, from North to South.
In 2000, the «Miss Stone» social center—named after the former missionary Ellen Stone—was established in Strumica (North Macedonia). Even back then, the idea was to be there for people in need. It’s amazing to see how much has grown since then—and it stands as an impressive testament to tireless dedication and genuine generosity of spirit.
In the 1960s, «experts» and cows were still being shipped to Rwanda in order to
intensify agriculture. Today, however, it is part of IZA's self-image to
to local needs. Nevertheless, there are still many stumbling blocks. More than 40 Swiss NGOs have therefore jointly developed a manifesto - a call for joint steps on the path to equal partnerships.
What is a problem tree and how do I start a project? Three women and three men underwent further training in project management at the beginning of May - and asked a lot of questions. They all work in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a country characterized by war and crises.
In the 1960s, «experts» and cows were still being shipped to Rwanda in order to
intensify agriculture. Today, however, it is part of IZA's self-image to
to local needs. Nevertheless, there are still many stumbling blocks. More than 40 Swiss NGOs have therefore jointly developed a manifesto - a call for joint steps on the path to equal partnerships.
The list of global crises is long - the food crisis, climate crisis, war, military conflicts and a crisis of confidence in liberal-democratic countries are affecting the prospect of a better future. People in the Global South, who are struggling with numerous crises, are particularly affected. How are they faring and what glimmers of hope are visible on the horizon?
At the beginning of November, heavy rainfall in Kinshasa turned into a devastating disaster. The Kingabwa district, which lies along the Congo River, was severely flooded. The floodwaters destroyed houses and infrastructure and swept away the livelihoods of over 100 families.
The first round of the presidential election will take place in Chile on Sunday. This is likely to lead to a decision on the direction the country will take. Felipe Rojas Cortés from the Methodist Church in Chile reports on the mood and background, the feared consequences for migrants, and a dilemma facing the church. He also draws parallels with Europe.
Carolina Zaballa Romero is a psychologist, artist, human rights activist—and, since August, the new coordinator for South America at Connexio hope and develop. She talks about her first impressions and how and why she got involved.
