Federal Council puts together new aid package for Ukraine

Switzerland wants to send more aid to war-torn Ukraine. At 2.30 pm, Federal President Alain Berset (50) and Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis (61) will again present a support package to the media.

It is necessary if you look at Switzerland’s commitment in an international comparison. This is evident from a ranking by the Institute for the World Economy in Kiel namelythat Switzerland helps significantly less than other countries in terms of GDP: Switzerland ranks 33rd out of 40 countries.

Only 0.03 percent of GDP

On average, the 40 countries surveyed have so far pledged 0.36 percent of their gross domestic product in aid. In Switzerland, the value is 0.03 percent. It cares less than any other European country.

One reason for the poor performance is that Switzerland does not supply weapons which are deposited into the accounts of most other countries. But even if you leave that out and only count non-military support, Switzerland only comes in tenth. Austria – which also does not supply arms because of its neutrality – is much more involved.

1.3 billion francs so far

The Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) also complained on SRF radio that the calculation only takes into account the money that comes from the federal government, but not the help of the cantons, cities and municipalities and private aid organizations such as Swiss Solidarity. The same applies to the other states as well.

According to the FDFA, Switzerland has supported Ukraine to the tune of CHF 1.3 billion since the outbreak of war – this includes both humanitarian actions and the costs of Ukrainian refugees in Switzerland.

Now something has to be added again – it remains to be seen how big the help will be and whether you can get rid of the red lantern that is raising the rear in Europe. Blick reports live from the media conference. (sf/bgs)

Source:Blick