Asia Matters. For the last decades, the geopolitical and economical "center of gravity" of the world has continually shifted eastwards. Asia is no longer just a manufacturing hub, or a market opportunity – it is the world’s most populous and dynamic region. Asia, and what happens in Asia, influences Swiss society and businesses on every level. To navigate an "Asian Future", it is crucial to develop Asia Competence. We define Asia Competence not just as knowledge and understanding on Asia, but as an actionable skill including the ability to understand different viewpoints, and to access local and international networks related to Asia. In short, Asia Competence is the ability to operate in an Asian context.

"Since its founding, Asia Society has been the world's leading non-profit organization to enhance knowledge and understanding about Asia and create bridges between the region and the rest of the world. Today, that mandate is more important than ever." 

— Kyung-wha Kang, President and CEO, Asia Society

We deeply believe that only with increased Asia Competence and sustained engagement with Asia will Switzerland be able to continue to thrive in a multipolar world and play a constructive role in shaping the "Asian Future". For this reason, we have made it our mission to foster Asia Competence in Switzerland. We do so by providing strategic intelligence, education, and training on Asia; and by building and maintaining Asia-related communities and networks.

Read more about how we work here.
 

WHY OUR WORK MATTERS

• Asia Competence can no longer be delegated to a team, department, or specific office. Headquarters, leadership, and board of almost every company need continued Asia Competence to successfully navigate a new world.
• While not everyone will work on Asia in the future, we all need a broad understanding of the developments in Asia, and how they matter to Switzerland and the world.   
• Increasing Asia Competence also helps to keep Switzerland open and connected to the world, and to make it an attractive place for people from all around the globe to work and live.