Members of Swiss Parliament visit Swiss TPH

Shifting priorities and increasingly uncertain funding conditions are putting at risk the progress achieved over recent decades in combating diseases and improving the health of people worldwide. Against this backdrop, scientific institutions and international partnerships are more important than ever in driving innovation, addressing health challenges and supporting Switzerland remain internationally connected.

The visit to Swiss TPH provided parliamentarians and Tanja Soland, Government Councillor of the Canton of Basel-Stadt, with an opportunity to gain first-hand insights into how research, education and partnerships contribute to these goals. The visit was organised by Eva Herzog, President of the Finance Commission of the Council of States, and President of the Board of Governors of Swiss TPH.

The parliamentarians heard about the development of new medicines for malaria and neglected tropical diseases in collaboration with private-sector partners, research on pathogens such as multidrug-resistant tuberculosis conducted in the high-security laboratory, and how scientific evidence on the effects of environmental factors on health, like exposure to electromagnetic fields, can support policy decisions.

The visit also offered opportunities for exchange with Swiss TPH leadership, researchers, staff and students, demonstrating how scientific evidence, international collaboration and capacity strengthening contribute to to addressing health challenges and strengthening Switzerland’s capacity for innovation.
 

For media enquiries, please contact communications@swisstph.ch.