The Swiss Foundation for World Affairs brings the best elements of Swiss tradition to the policy circles of Washington, D.C. As Geneva has become a principal forum for world negotiation, diplomacy and networking, the Foundation provides a neutral forum for political and civil leaders to discuss critical issues of the day.
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The Swiss Foundation for World Affairs, based at Johns Hopkins University's School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) in Washington, D.C., takes advantage of the region's dense network of foreign policy institutions. The Foundation, now in its third year of operations, contributes to the debate on international politics and policies by focusing on initiatives related to: - Security & Peace Policy
- Human Rights & International Humanitarian Law
- Migration & Refugee Policy
- Development Cooperation & Humanitarian Aid
- Environmental Issues
The Swiss Foundation for World Affairs supports an atmosphere of respect, tolerance, and discretion to build bridges between different perspectives, philosophies, and experiences. Emphasis is placed on the high level of integrity and constructive nature of discussions as well as on the political timing of proposed conferences. During the academic year 2004/2005, the Swiss Foundation for World Affairs hosted eleven conferences and four seminars. To access our event summaries, please visit the Seminars and Conferences websites. Our "For the Record" conference reports can be downloaded directly from our Conference Reports website.
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The idea to establish the Swiss Foundation for World Affairs originated with four distinguished Swiss citizens: Ambassador Edouard Brunner, Dr. Pierre Keller, Dr. Felix E. Müller and the late David de Pury. They believed that Switzerland, as a model for the peaceful resolution of conflicts and consensual government, had unique approaches and perspectives to contribute to the debate within Washington's international affairs community. When the four founders met with Dr. Paul Wolfowitz, the former Dean of SAIS, they agreed that SAIS would be the ideal institution to host the Foundation due to the school's fine international and national reputation and its commitment to excellence in scholarship combined with a practical approach to preparing students for international leadership. The Swiss Foundation for World Affairs is registered as a District of Columbia nonprofit organization. It is funded by Swiss corporations and foundations and by contributions from the Swiss Federal government. |
