Tuesday 8 April: NATIONAL DAY OF SOLIDARITY after the earthquake in South-East Asia

The earthquake that struck on 28 March caused massive destruction in South-East Asia, particularly in Myanmar, where the humanitarian situation was already critical before the disaster. In order to strengthen solidarity in Switzerland and intensify emergency aid, Swiss Solidarity is organising a national day of solidarity with the support of the SSR - RTS, SRF, RSI and RTR units, as well as the Radios Régionales Romandes. Call centers will be active from 7am to 11pm in the four regions of the country: Geneva, Zurich, Lugano and Chur. Volunteers and personalities will take turns throughout the day to collect pledges and bear witness to the surge of solidarity. Donations can be made from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. on 0800 87 07 07, online at www.swiss-solidarity.org or via Twint. 

’Solidarity is a deeply rooted value in Switzerland’ 

The President of the Swiss Confederation, Karin Keller-Sutter, opens the national day of solidarity: ‘In the face of the tragedy that has struck South-East Asia, and Myanmar in particular, Switzerland is showing solidarity with those in distress. This solidarity is a value that is deeply rooted in our country and enables us to provide effective assistance.’ Miren Bengoa, director of Swiss Solidarity, adds: ‘Swiss Solidarity embodies the Swiss people's spirit of solidarity with the people affected by this disaster. As soon as we realised the gravity of the situation and were certain that our Swiss partners could intervene effectively on the ground, we launched an appeal to the public. Every donation counts in providing vital aid to the local population." 

Crucial aid provided by Swiss partner NGOs 

Myanmar is the region most affected by the earthquake. Despite the extremely difficult conditions, Swiss partner organisations of Swiss Solidarity are already providing vital emergency aid. In the Sagaing region, where more than half of the houses have been destroyed, they are distributing water, food and hygiene products and providing access to healthcare. Financial aid is also paid to victims so that they can purchase essential goods. This aid is possible thanks to their long experience in the country and their collaboration with local civil society actors, who guarantee rapid and impartial aid even in times of crisis. All the projects of the partner organisations are rigorously evaluated by Swiss Solidarity, to ensure that the aid reaches the populations most severely affected. All the Foundation's partner organisations work according to the humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, humanity and independence.

Donations can be made today, National Day of Solidarity, from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., by calling the freephone number 0800 87 07 07, at www.swiss-solidarity.org, via Twint or at any post office counter, quoting ‘Earthquake South-East Asia’.