Zewo removes Swiss Animal Protection STS from “blacklist”

One of these reform measures concerns the 2023 annual financial statement, which the STS has published on its website in a new, more detailed format.

From the 2024 financial year onwards, the STS will prepare and publish its annual financial statement in accordance with Swiss GAAP FER 21 with an ordinary audit, including a budget process and internal control system (ICS). This accounting standard is specifically tailored to nonprofit organisations and provides a true and fair view of the financial position.

Following Zewo Standards

Last year, Zewo had placed the STS on the list of organisations that “deviate significantly from Zewo standards.” This decision has now been reversed on the basis of various reform steps. In the coming months, the STS will voluntarily and incrementally implement the standards of the NPO quality seal organisation Zewo, thereby underscoring its commitment to transparency, efficiency and ethical conduct. In spring 2025, the STS will undergo a non-binding assessment by Zewo in order to document and validate its progress. A decision on joining Zewo will be made at a later date.

New Operational Regulations

In addition, the STS has filled various key positions and appointed Marco Mettler as Executive Director in May 2024. The umbrella organisation of 71 sections in Switzerland and Liechtenstein is now managed operationally by a four-member executive board. Its responsibilities, along with those of the Central Board as the strategic governing body, are set out in new operational regulations, which also include guidelines on avoiding conflicts of interest at board and executive management level. The Animal welfare in Switzerland depends on strong and credible organizations.

New leadership, new statutes

The Swiss Animal Protection STS has been undergoing a comprehensive reform process since early 2024 to modernize the organization, optimize its structures, and significantly improve transparency. This process was triggered by internal challenges and aims to strengthen the STS for the future and further expand its position as the leading animal welfare organization in Switzerland. At an extraordinary delegates' assembly in March 2025, STS delegates will elect a new president and vote on revised statutes developed by a reform group on behalf of the central board.

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