The mountain program of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC)

The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), Switzerland's international cooperation agency, is part of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (the Swiss Foreign Ministry). Together with other federal offices, SDC is responsible for overall coordination of development activities and cooperation with Eastern Europe as well as humanitarian aid.

SDC employs a staff of 350 people to carry out its activities in Switzerland and abroad, with an annual budget of CHF 1.2 billion (1999). The agency undertakes direct actions, supports the programmes of multilateral organisations, and helps to finance programmes run by Swiss and international aid organisations. SDC programmes are generally implemented through international agencies, NGOs, universities, and others. SDC takes the role of an initiator, facilitator and coordinator, emphasising ownership by local stakeholders.