In 2011, the Directorate for Development and Cooperation (Deza) celebrates its 50th anniversary. The Service for Technical Cooperation was established in 1960, and in 1961, the position of a Federal Councillor's delegate for technical cooperation was created. This marked the actual beginning of state development cooperation in Switzerland. René Holenstein's book reflects on half a century of Swiss development aid and takes stock. It describes the principles and goals, as well as the methods and actors of development cooperation. A historical overview provides insight into the history of development policy in Switzerland. The author questions the reasons behind it, as well as the achievements and successes in development cooperation. These can be found in poverty alleviation, peace policy, the protection of human rights, and good governance.