Privilege sharing
hope through
sharing

The poverty in India is appalling: thousands live on the streets, suffering from hunger and diseases such as leprosy or malaria. Despite these harsh living conditions, there are still moments of mutual aid.

 

When Zurich photographer Kurt Sauter visited Calcutta in the mid-1990s, he was deeply moved by the suffering of the people. Together with friends from Switzerland, he began sharing privileges – money, time, and personal commitment. This gave rise to "privilege sharing," a movement that provides direct and unbureaucratic help where it is needed.

 

Initially, volunteers provided the poorest with mobile kitchens, medical assistance, and lessons for street children. Over the years, support grew: people from Switzerland, Germany, Latvia, England, the Netherlands, and India contributed their skills: cooks, teachers, doctors, artists, and many more.

 

Since 2004, the focus has been on the village of Janpur in Bihar. A school was built there for 150 children who would otherwise have no educational opportunities. But "privilege sharing" also has an impact beyond India – for example, in Bangladesh, Latvia, and Switzerland.

 

The philosophy remains: sharing without expectation, beyond religion and politics. Happiness arises not from rules, but from compassion and humility. Only without coercion can a flower bloom – and so this idea spreads worldwide, carried by countless selfless people. Thank you!

 

Because the fundamental right of all living beings is to be happy.