Since 2025, various media outlets have been reporting on past international adoption programs and the “Soins spécialisés” program run by the Terre des hommes Foundation, based in Lausanne. terre des hommes schweiz is a legally, organizationally, and financially independent organization and was not involved in these programs. Here, we answer the most important questions.
What’s it about?
The Terre des hommes Foundation, based in Lausanne (hereinafter “Terre des hommes Foundation”), has been the focus of media attention since 2025 due to allegations related to international adoptions and the former “Soins spécialisés” program. The focus is on possible abuses in the care of children who came to Switzerland between the 1960s and 1970s.
The Terre des hommes Foundation has commissioned an independent scientific study. You can find the statement dated June 24, 2026, here: Read the statement.
Has terre des hommes schweiz been involved in international adoptions?
No. terre des hommes schweiz, based in Basel, has not carried out or facilitated any international adoptions. terre des hommes schweiz was also not involved in the “Soins spécialisés” program. The current media coverage concerns earlier programs of the Terre des hommes Foundation. The Foundation is legally, financially, and organizationally independent of terre des hommes schweiz.
What is terre des hommes schweiz’s position?
terre des hommes schweiz welcomes this independent, scientific investigation. Among other things, the arrangement of international adoptions in 1972 led to a split within the Terre des Hommes movement in Switzerland.
Who is responsible for questions regarding past adoption programs?
The Terre des hommes Foundation, based in Lausanne, is responsible for questions related to international adoptions and the former “Soins spécialisés” program. terre des hommes schweiz is a legally, organizationally, and financially independent organization and was not involved in these programs.
You can contact the Terre des hommes Foundation using the contact form or by phone at +41 58 611 06 11.
Contact for donors: donorcare@tdh.org
Contact for the media: media@tdh.org
Contact for patients and their families: adoption@tdh.org
