The gap between the industrial world and developing countries is extremely wide. The infrastructures of poor countries are often inadequate, indeed problematic. At the same time, the populations of these countries have tremendous potential for development. They are young, growing, and often have access to valuable natural resources. In many cases, they are comparable to the Europe of only a few hundred years ago. If one can be patient, there is good reason for optimism.
A foundation cannot do much to change a political system or economic mechanisms. But with targeted support of local development initiatives, much can be done to improve the situation of individuals and communities. Education does not merely enable its recipients to exercise a profession and earn a living; it also creates the competence and motivation to participate in the development of their countries.
Since 1972, development cooperation (Entwicklungszusammenarbeit - EZA) has been a strong focus of the Limmat Foundation. This true is cooperation since the actual agents of development are the local partners. The Foundation has already supported hundreds of such projects. You can find reports of recent EZA grants under the heading “Projects.”
The human beeing is the center of real development.
