The Swiss Academy of Humanities and Social Sciences (SAHS) is the umbrella organization of 61 learned societies. Whether in literature or theology, in communication sciences or in political sciences, its member societies represent a whole variety of disciplines. In total, no fewer than 30,000 people are members of a learned society associated with the SAHS, making it the largest network in the humanities and social sciences in Switzerland.

Research promotion, international cooperation and the promotion of young academics – these have been the main concerns of the SAHS since its foundation in 1946. As an institution of research funding recognised by the Federal Confederation, the Academy is currently involved in four central thematic areas: 

Networking

The SAHS serves as a platform for the realisation of joint projects and for the dissemination of research results within the scientific community. Its role as a "mediator" between the disciplines is also of great importance.

Promotion of the humanities and social sciences

The SAHS allocates a large part of its budget to the promotion of activities in the humanities and social sciences in our country. As far as possible, it pursues a funding policy that focuses on the promotion of young academics in research.

Outreach

The SAHS regularly organizes public conferences and panel discussions on current topics. It thus emphasizes the contribution of its disciplines to the analysis of important social challenges and promotes dialogue with politics and business.

Infrastructures in the humanities and social sciences

The SAHS is responsible for various long-term projects. These provide an important research infrastructure for the humanities and social sciences and make a substantial contribution to the preservation, communication and development of Switzerland's collective memory.

Swiss Academies of Arts and Sciences

The SAHS is a member of the Swiss Academies of Arts and Sciences. The Swiss Academies of Arts and Sciences network the sciences regionally, nationally and internationally. They are particularly active in the fields of foresight, ethics and advocate dialogue between science and society.