5.4 Communication

At national level: Switzerland’s activities in the field of water are publicly presented and their value highlighted in an appropriate form. Anticipated effects, suitable forms and appropriate channels are taken into account. Preference is given to using digital media and channels for communication. This means consideration is given to public interest and digital development. Communication always takes place in agreement with other internal units involved and the relevant communication units of the departments concerned.

At international level: Switzerland’s foreign policy credibility with its humanitarian tradition, neutrality, good offices and expertise in international cooperation also provides a good framework for communicating its activities in the water sector internationally. This applies to water diplomacy in particular. Communication here must be carefully balanced and targeted. Communication may be proactive and broad, but equally passive or aimed at a limited target audience. Smooth coordination between head office units and the representations is vitally important.

Reporting: Reporting on the implementation of these guidelines and Swiss activities in the field of water is carried out as part of the Federal Council’s Foreign Policy Report. In addition, the units responsible report on the impact of international cooperation projects through the mechanisms created for this purpose.

The «1 Million Youth Actions Challenge » mobilising young people from all over the world to act on water, climate change, disaster risk reduction and the environment is an initiative of the SDC (© Gabriele Maselli).