Switzerland and the countries of the ex-Yugoslavia have a longstanding special relationship due to the migration of people from that region to work in Switzerland. Consequently, a large number of people from Bosnia and Herzegovina sought refuge in Switzerland during and after the war. For Switzerland as for other countries of Europe, the stabilization of the region is a political objective necessary to ensure peace. Likewise, economic recovery is an important aim, being a precondition for social and political regional integration through trade and, eventually, for joining the European Union.

Numerous Swiss projects are presently underway or have already been completed in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In accordance with the priorities defined by SDC and seco they concentrate on various domains. In the Social Domain, SDC is also involved in projects in the fields of family health and Support to Mental Health Institutions.