Cooperation programme – Bosnia and Herzegovina
Switzerland has been one of Bosnia and Herzegovina's most important bilateral donors and development partners since 1996. Swiss engagement has gradually evolved from providing humanitarian assistance and post-war reconstruction in 1996 to supporting long-term development cooperation and systemic reform. Today, Switzerland is one of Bosnia and Herzegovina's largest bilateral cooperation partners.
Swiss cooperation supports Bosnia and Herzegovina at all levels of government, focusing on strengthening institutions, improving public services, and promoting sustainable economic and social development. Switzerland's long-term commitment, flexibility, and bottom-up approach are important characteristics of this partnership. Over time, the focus has shifted increasingly from humanitarian assistance and individual projects to systemic reforms, particularly in the areas of healthcare, vocational education, local governance, water management, migration management, economic development, and the digitalisation of public institutions. The Swiss Cooperation Programme takes a Whole-of-Government Approach, bringing together the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM), and the Human Security Division (HSD). To date, Switzerland has provided around 614 million CHF through local and regional development projects and contributions to multilateral programmes.
The current 2025-2028 Cooperation Programme is based on a solid partnership and mutual interests. Switzerland continues to support Bosnia and Herzegovina in specific sectors in line with the priorities set by the government. Those are strengthening good governance, the market economy, migration management, and health services in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Switzerland also works with partners who can advance reforms and develop new prospects and opportunities. CHF 62 million have been earmarked for the current programme budget. Upon completion of the current programme, Switzerland will continue to support Bosnia and Herzegovina, shifting the focus towards economic development and cooperation.
Three main areas of cooperation: 2025–2028
Sustainable Economic and Migration Cooperation
Switzerland supports Bosnia and Herzegovina in developing a competitive, sustainable and inclusive economy. The focus of this cooperation is to improve conditions for trade and investment, strengthen the private sector, support entrepreneurship and innovation, promote digitalisation, and create employment opportunities. Particular attention is given to young people and women, green economic development, and the development of competitive start-ups and businesses. Switzerland also supports vocational and technical education that responds to labour market needs. The emphasis is on work-based learning and close cooperation between public authorities, educational institutions, and the private sector.
Healthcare
Switzerland is the largest bilateral donor in the healthcare sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In close collaboration with the health authorities, Switzerland is supporting access to high-quality primary healthcare, healthier lifestyles, and the prevention of non-communicable diseases. The cooperation also focuses on improving nursing services and developing care services for older people, thereby contributing to a more efficient healthcare system. Swiss projects pay particular attention to vulnerable groups, including people living with chronic diseases, mental health challenges, and those living in remote areas. Cooperation also supports the development of coordinated health policies, legislation and professional standards, while strengthening cooperation among health institutions and different levels of government.
Local Governance and Municipal Services
Switzerland promotes democracy and good governance by strengthening accountable and transparent institutions, as well as improving the quality of public services. Particular emphasis is placed on citizen participation in decision-making processes, including that of socially marginalised groups. Switzerland supports municipalities and public institutions in improving water supply and wastewater management, increasing energy efficiency, and transitioning to renewable energy sources. Cooperation also helps local communities to strengthen their resilience to climate change and manage disaster risk. Through institutional partnerships between Swiss and local organisations, Switzerland supports the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals at a local level, as well as public policy development and local planning. Supporting civil society organisations and engaging in dialogue with public authorities further contributes to social cohesion, citizen participation, and trust in democratic institutions.