More than 70 years ago, when the future of refugees in Europe seemed condemned, one country made a difference: Switzerland. Not with grand speeches, but with concrete action – driven by companies, foundations, and citizens. This surge of solidarity enabled UNHCR to continue its mission and bring hope to millions. Today, faced with an even greater crisis, this story resonates more than ever: will we be able to repeat it?
Today, more than 122 million people are displaced – and while needs are skyrocketing, funding is falling short. This situation is not new: when browsing the UNHCR archives, we discovered that in 1953 the organisation faced the same deadlock. At that moment, Switzerland stepped in. Letters and pledges of donations from companies, foundations and private individuals allowed UNHCR to carry on its mission and protect those who had lost everything.
In 1953, Switzerland stepped in. Today, the call is even stronger. Will we rise to the challenge once again?
Seventy years later, we are facing the largest displacement crisis ever recorded.
And yet, just as needs are exploding, humanitarian funding is collapsing.
Every hour counts when a crisis breaks out. Thanks to support from the private sector and individuals, UNHCR can act immediately: distribute food, provide shelter, protect lives.
This partnership, built on trust, transforms Switzerland’s tradition of solidarity into concrete, effective and vital action.
