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Swiss Animal Protection Elects New President After Turbulent Period

Following a turbulent period, Swiss Animal Protection has a new president. Peter V. Kunz aims to bring transparency and reform to the organization.

In this image in the center there is an animal. In the background there are trees and on the top...
In this image in the center there is an animal. In the background there are trees and on the top there is a shelter.

Swiss Animal Protection Elects New President After Turbulent Period

Swiss Animal Protection, a prominent animal welfare organization, has seen significant changes in its leadership following a turbulent period. In 2023, the association made headlines when a criminal complaint was filed against its then-president, Nicole Ruch, and former board members. After a period of uncertainty, Peter V. Kunz was elected as the new president, marking a fresh start for the organization.

Following Ruch's removal, an interim president was needed. Piero Mazzoleni stepped in to fill this role until an extraordinary delegates' assembly could be held. A search committee was formed to create job profiles for the board election, resulting in twelve candidates being put forward. Among them was Peter V. Kunz, a Bern-based economics professor who ran on a reformist platform.

Kunz was elected in April 2023, bringing a new direction to the organization. He was confirmed as president at the assembly, with Eva Suhner elected as the new vice-president. The board also saw seven new members join, making it an eleven-member team. Kunz's election follows allegations of mismanagement and excessive expense claims against Ruch, which she denied. Despite the controversy, the organization looks forward to a new chapter under Kunz's leadership.

Swiss Animal Protection has undergone significant changes in its leadership, with Peter V. Kunz now at the helm as president. Following a period of turmoil, the organization is focused on moving forward with a new board and a commitment to transparency and reform under Kunz's guidance.

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