INTRODUCTION
Introduction Humanitarian Aid of the Swiss Confederation Switzerland has a long tradition in humanitarian aid, reflecting the strong sense of solidarity and responsibility of the Swiss people towards those affected by conflicts, crises and disasters. SDC's active and worldwide engagement in humanitarian aid was mandated by federal law in 1976, an international commitment that continues to be strongly supported by the Swiss people and authorities. SDC's Humanitarian Aid Department (SDCHA), within the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, fulfils this mandate in close collaboration with partners. Its increasingly important multilateral cooperation accounts for about two thirds of its budget, the other third being used bilaterally to finance the Department's direct humanitarian activities and those of Swiss and foreign non-governmental organizations abroad.
“The aim of humanitarian aid is to help preserve the lives of human beings who are in danger and to alleviate suffering through preventive and emergency aid measures; such aid is intended for victims of natural disasters and armed conflict.” Federal law on international development cooperation and humanitarian aid, 19 March 1976 (1) (1) For references see page 21
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Global context and challenges The changing global context of humanitarian aid, growing complexity of the multilateral system and limited availability of financial resources mean that clear strategies and operational priorities are vital to the effectiveness and relevance of Switzerland's multilateral commitment to humanitarian aid. Among the challenges to be met are those posed by the increasing number of players participating in humanitarian aid, including non-governmental organizations, civil society and armed forces (in a “subsidiary” role). Effective coordination is crucial for efficient action, as is intensified promotion of humanitarian principles, which may be neglected by those competing for visibility and resources or seeking to impose political conditions on aid. New types of conflicts characterized by increased violence against the civilian population and humanitarian personnel, more frequent natural disasters and international migration are creating greater demands on humanitarian actors. At the same time, older conflicts may lose the attention of the international community in supporting the local partners in their search for transition from emergency to sustainable development.