heks

According to its Trust Statute, HEKS has a mandate to act on behalf of the Protestant churches of Switzerland. It is the Assembly of Delegates of the Federation of Swiss Protestant Churches (FSPC) which briefs the aid organisation on its mandates and assignments. The latter works in collaboration with churches, cantonal OeME organisations (Ecumenism, Mission and Development), HEKS committees and other church-based groups.

HEKS campaigns for a more humane and a more equitable world. The focus of its commitment is on the dignity of each individual. This is one of the principles of universal human rights and it is also reflected in basic Christian values, such as altruism and charity. Both aspects form the basis for the work of HEKS.

Our mission statement expresses our deep respect for people of all cultures, ethnicities and religions. As such, HEKS helps needy people regardless of their religious affiliation and ethnic origin. The aid organisation aligns itself in its work with goals like justice, peace and the integrity of creation.

Among other things, the strategy identifies the main areas of focus for the international work, namely the development of rural communities, the promotion of peace and conflict resolution, interchurch cooperation and humanitarian aid. The work in Switzerland is focused on social integration, advocacy for asylum seekers, and the socially disadvantaged.

More specifically, HEKS bases its work on values like self-determination, solidarity, responsibility, participation and grass-roots involvement. Project work is carried out by local partner organisations or with their input, for example. HEKS works with these partners to help people to help themselves. The top priority is to bring people to a point where they are independent of outside aid. This is why schemes and projects are developed in a spirit of partnership and run in liaison with those affected.