Notes from the Federal Palace What are the main activities of these charitable organisations today? Economic and social support to compatriots in need Many associations still offer tangible economic support to fellow Swiss citizens in need, when they are vulnerable in some way: ad hoc financial assistance may be possible, and social support for isolated elderly people or even help with administrative procedures is available in many organisations. These associations thus handle vital additional tasks over and above what official bodies can cover. Young Swiss Abroad Support for young Swiss Abroad is also provided by numerous associations. Partial grants or financial assistance with education may be available in certain circumstances. Advice and recommendations for administrative procedures can be provided. Maintaining ties with Swiss cultural heritage Celebrations, typical recipes and traditional or folk festivals perpetuate Swiss local customs and traditions. This is how traditions live on outside the home country. Organising events like these lets people feel that they belong to the diaspora. Promoting Swiss languages Multilingualism, which is so characteristic of Switzerland, is also supported by Swiss charitable organisations, which often offer bilingual or inclusive activities in Switzerland’s different national languages. Community networking among Swiss Meeting places for the diaspora are venues for having discussions, sharing interests and preserving contact among fellow citizens. Links between expats, offering a welcome to newly arrived families or support for students coming from Switzerland can be a starting point for fellow citizens abroad. “Our goal is to do good. In doing so, let us draw inspiration from the noble deeds of those before us who have passed down the traditions we follow. Let us help our suffering brothers, with insight, patience and above all true charity.” Edouard Berthoud, president of the Société helvétique de Paris from 1907 to 1912 Representing the interests of the Swiss Abroad Charitable organisations work hand-in-hand with Swiss representations abroad, such as consulates and embassies, as well as the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad. The interests of the “Fifth Switzerland” are defended and promoted. A word on the other Swiss institutions abroad Other institutions, such as the Hôpital Suisse de Paris in France, established in 1970, are still in operation. This hospital, created This article is an update to the article published in July 2022 (“Review” 3/22) and available here: www.revue.link/aid mainly by Swiss people and binationals, was initially designed to cater to Swiss living in the region but, of course, is open to everyone. The Hôpital Suisse de Paris is the only Swiss hospital operating outside Switzerland. There is also a Swiss senior care home near the hospital, in Issy-les-Moulineaux, just outside Paris. What does the future hold for organisations for the Swiss Abroad? One can only admire the way in which the work done by these associations to bring people together has survived the test of time and how the activities of charitable organisations have stayed current. This solidarity, adopted by multiple associations in a large number of countries, bears witness to an organisation for the Swiss Abroad that is unique in its genre and profoundly philanthropic. This solidarity beyond national borders is inspiring in many respects. If this link is to survive, the next generations must also commit to volunteering, and the keen hope is that they will take an interest. The information in this article is general and non-exhaustive. We encourage you to contact the charitable organisations operating in your country of residence, if you feel the need, or if you would like to lend a hand by signing up! 31 Swiss Review / April 2026 / No. 2
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