We promote partnerships because we believe that relationships between people broaden horizons. They require mutual learning, create understanding for each other, create solidarity with one another, create responsibility for others and for oneself. In partnerships, head, heart and hand work together.* This creates common solutions for sustainable cooperation.

The SEZ supports Baden-Württemberg and its partners in the global south towards an interculturally sensitive, respectful, equal, trusting and transparent partnership that pursues a common and sustainable goal for mutual benefit.

According to the motto “No one is so poor that he has nothing to give.” Nobody is so rich that he has nothing left to receive.”** the SEZ’s understanding of partnership includes:

• an interculturally sensitive cooperation
• a respectful approach with respect, appreciation and equality
• a genuine interest in the partner
• a trusting, open, honest and transparent relationship
• that the partnership is sustainable and long-term
• that all partners pursue a common goal
• that partnerships are lively, active and stimulating
• mutual gain and benefit
• "Helping people help themselves"
• Gender equality and intersectoral behavior
• that everyone is open to new colleagues, new impulses and developments
• no sponsorship!

* in: “World Church partnerships between parishes and dioceses”, Secretariat of the German Bishops’ Conference, Bonn, p. 4 / ** ibid., p. 5