Relations between Switzerland and Niger are good. They are characterised by many years of bilateral cooperation aimed at promoting the country's development, improving the living conditions of its population, and promoting peace.
Bilateral relations Switzerland–Niger
Key aspects of diplomatic relations
Switzerland has defined a strategy for sub-Saharan Africa for the period 2021–24.
In the Sahel region, which includes Niger, Switzerland focuses primarily on promoting peace, the respect for international humanitarian law, the bolstering of basic services, and the sustainable management of natural resources.
Niger is a priority country for Switzerland's international cooperation. For over 35 years, the SDC has been promoting rural development and access to education and vocational training.
Sub-Saharan Africa Strategy 2021–24 (PDF, 48 Pages, 3.1 MB, English)
Cooperation in education, research and innovation
Researchers who are citizens of Niger can apply to the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) for Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships.
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Scholars and Artists (SERI)
Development cooperation and humanitarian aid
The SDC has been active in Niger since 1978. Its work is aimed at improving food security and the quality of life of the population, fostering inclusive and sustainable development, developing the education system and promoting gender equality.
Niger is facing major challenges (security, population growth, climate change). Over 2 million people depend on food aid.
Swiss citizens in Niger
According to statistics on the Swiss abroad, 31 Swiss citizens were living in Niger at the end of 2020 and 72 citizens of Niger were living in Switzerland.
History of bilateral relations
Switzerland recognised Niger in 1960 and established diplomatic relations with the country a year later. Despite several agreements – trade, investment protection, technical cooperation – economic exchanges between the two states remain limited.
