Legal and Governance

1. Imprint

Foundation Identity

EKIA Stiftung - Emma Kodály International Academy is a Foundation with its legal headquarters in Cham

Legal Status

EKIA Educational Foundation is an independent, non-profit foundation established under Articles 80a et seq. of the Swiss Civil Code.

The Foundation operates exclusively for charitable and educational purposes in accordance with its statutes and applicable Swiss law.

Registration & Identification

Supervisory Authority

The Foundation is subject to supervision by the competent Swiss foundation supervisory authority:

Board of Trustees

The Foundation is governed by its Board of Trustees, which holds ultimate responsibility for strategic direction, fiduciary oversight, and compliance with legal and statutory obligations.

Audit Authority

Where required by law or the Foundation’s statutes, the annual financial statements are reviewed by an independent, licensed audit authority in Switzerland.

Responsibility for Website Content

The entity responsible for the content of this website is:

Disclaimer of Liability

The information provided on this website has been prepared with the greatest care. Nevertheless, EKIA Educational Foundation does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or current validity of the content.

The Foundation assumes no liability for damages arising directly or indirectly from the use of this website or reliance on the information contained herein.

External Links

This website may contain links to external websites operated by third parties. EKIA Educational Foundation has no influence over the content of such websites and assumes no responsibility for their accuracy, legality, or availability.

Responsibility for the content of linked pages rests solely with their respective operators.

Intellectual Property

All content published on this website, including text, graphics, logos, photographs, and design elements, is protected by Swiss copyright and intellectual property laws.

Reproduction, modification, distribution, or use beyond statutory limits requires prior written consent from EKIA Educational Foundation or the respective rights holder.

Photography & Credits

Unless otherwise stated, all images are the property of EKIA Educational Foundation or used under appropriate license.

Website design and development: EKIA Stiftung - Emma Kodály International Academy

Data Protection

Information regarding the processing of personal data is available in our Privacy Policy.

2. Privacy Policy

Commitment to Data Protection

The EKIA Educational Foundation is committed to protecting the privacy and personal data of individuals who interact with the Foundation, including visitors to our website, donors, partners, and members of the public.

This Privacy Policy outlines how personal data may be collected, processed, stored, and protected when individuals access the Foundation’s website or communicate with the organization.

The policy has been developed in accordance with the Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (nFADP) and reflects internationally recognized principles of responsible data governance and transparency.

Collection of Personal Data

EKIA Educational Foundation may collect personal data in the course of its activities and through interactions with its website.

Personal data may include information voluntarily provided by individuals, such as:

• Name and contact information
• Email address or telephone number
• Messages submitted through website contact forms
• Information related to philanthropic engagement or donations

In addition, certain technical information may be collected automatically when visitors access the website, including device or browser information, IP address, and general website usage data.

Purpose of Data Processing

Personal data is processed solely for legitimate and clearly defined purposes related to the Foundation’s activities. These purposes may include:

• Responding to inquiries or communications
• Providing information about the Foundation’s initiatives and activities
• Managing philanthropic engagement and donor relations
• Ensuring the proper functioning and security of the website
• Improving the quality and accessibility of digital services
• Complying with applicable legal or regulatory obligations

The Foundation processes personal data only to the extent necessary to fulfill these purposes.

Legal Basis for Processing

Personal data may be processed on one or more of the following grounds:

• Consent provided by the individual
• Legitimate interests of the Foundation in maintaining its activities and communications
• The performance of a request initiated by the individual
• Compliance with legal obligations under applicable regulations

Data Protection and Security

EKIA Educational Foundation implements appropriate technical and organizational measures designed to safeguard personal data from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or loss.

These safeguards are intended to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and security of personal information processed by the Foundation.

Data Retention

Personal data is retained only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected or to meet legal and regulatory requirements.

When personal data is no longer required, it is securely deleted or anonymized in accordance with established data management practices.

Rights of Individuals

Individuals whose personal data is processed by the Foundation may have certain rights under applicable data protection laws, including the right to:

• Request access to personal data held about them
• Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete information
• Request deletion of personal data where appropriate
• Object to certain types of processing
• Withdraw consent where processing is based on consent

Requests concerning personal data may be directed to the Foundation using the contact information provided below.

Cookies and Website Technologies

The EKIA Educational Foundation website may use cookies or similar technologies to support website functionality and improve user experience.

Further information regarding the use of cookies is available in the Foundation’s Cookie Policy.

External Websites

This website may contain links to external websites operated by third parties. EKIA Educational Foundation is not responsible for the privacy practices or content of those websites.

Visitors are encouraged to review the privacy policies of any external sites they access.

Updates to This Policy

This Privacy Policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in legal requirements, technological developments, or the Foundation’s data processing practices.

The most current version of the policy will always be available on this website.

Contact

Questions regarding this Privacy Policy or the Foundation’s data protection practices may be directed to:

3. Cookie Policy

Transparency in the Use of Website Technologies

The website of EKIA Educational Foundation uses cookies and similar technologies to ensure the proper functioning of the website, improve the browsing experience, and better understand how visitors interact with our digital services.

This Cookie Policy explains the types of cookies used on this website and how visitors may manage their preferences. The use of cookies is conducted in accordance with the Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (nFADP) and widely recognized standards for responsible digital governance.

What Are Cookies

Cookies are small text files that are stored on a visitor’s device when accessing a website. They allow the website to recognize a user’s device and store certain information regarding browsing preferences or interactions with the site.

Cookies help websites operate efficiently and provide insights that support the improvement of digital services.

Types of Cookies Used

The EKIA Educational Foundation website may use the following categories of cookies:

Essential Cookies

Essential cookies are necessary for the proper functioning of the website. They enable core features such as page navigation, secure access to certain areas of the site, and general system functionality.

Without these cookies, some parts of the website may not operate correctly.

Functional Cookies

Functional cookies allow the website to remember user preferences and improve the browsing experience. These cookies may store information such as language preferences or interface settings.

Analytics Cookies

Analytics cookies help the Foundation understand how visitors use the website by collecting anonymous or aggregated information about website traffic and usage patterns.

This information helps improve website performance, usability, and the quality of digital services offered by the Foundation.

Third-Party Services

Certain services integrated into the website may be provided by third parties, such as analytics providers or embedded content platforms. These third parties may place cookies on a visitor’s device when interacting with their services.

EKIA Educational Foundation does not control these cookies. Visitors are encouraged to review the privacy policies of the respective third-party providers.

Managing Cookie Preferences

Visitors may manage or disable cookies through the settings of their web browser. Most browsers allow users to:

• View stored cookies
• Delete existing cookies
• Block cookies from specific websites
• Block all cookies

Please note that disabling certain cookies may affect the functionality and performance of the website.

Legal Basis

The use of cookies on this website is conducted in accordance with the Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (nFADP) and applicable principles governing the responsible processing of personal data in digital environments.

Where applicable, visitors may be presented with options to manage cookie preferences when accessing the website.

Updates to This Policy

This Cookie Policy may be updated from time to time to reflect changes in technology, regulatory requirements, or the website’s functionality.

The most current version of this policy will always be available on the Foundation’s website.

Contact

Questions regarding the use of cookies on this website may be directed to:

4. Terms of Use

Acceptance of Terms

By accessing and using the website of EKIA Educational Foundation, visitors agree to comply with these Terms of Use and all applicable laws and regulations.

If you do not agree with these terms, you should refrain from using this website.

Purpose of the Website

The website of EKIA Educational Foundation is intended to provide information regarding the Foundation’s mission, activities, educational initiatives, and opportunities for collaboration or philanthropic support.

All content provided on this website is intended for informational purposes only.

Intellectual Property

All materials available on this website, including text, images, graphics, logos, design elements, and overall website structure, are the property of EKIA Educational Foundation or its licensors and are protected by applicable copyright and intellectual property laws.

Unless otherwise permitted by law, reproduction, distribution, modification, or public display of website content without prior written consent from the Foundation is prohibited.

Acceptable Use

Users agree to use this website in a lawful and responsible manner. The following activities are prohibited:

• Attempting to gain unauthorized access to the website or related systems
• Interfering with the functionality or security of the website
• Using the website for fraudulent, unlawful, or harmful purposes
• Uploading or transmitting malicious software or harmful content

EKIA Educational Foundation reserves the right to restrict access to users who violate these terms.

Accuracy of Information

The Foundation strives to ensure that the information presented on this website is accurate and up to date. However, EKIA Educational Foundation does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or current validity of the information provided.

Content may be modified, updated, or removed without prior notice.

External Links

This website may contain links to external websites operated by third parties. These links are provided solely for informational purposes.

EKIA Educational Foundation does not control and assumes no responsibility for the content, policies, or availability of third-party websites.

Limitation of Liability

To the extent permitted by applicable law, EKIA Educational Foundation shall not be held liable for any direct or indirect damages arising from the use of or inability to use this website.

This includes damages resulting from technical issues, interruptions, inaccuracies in content, or reliance on the information provided.

Privacy and Data Protection

The collection and processing of personal data through this website are governed by the Foundation’s Privacy Policy, which describes how personal data is handled in accordance with applicable data protection laws.

Changes to the Terms

EKIA Educational Foundation reserves the right to modify or update these Terms of Use at any time. Updated versions will be published on the website.

Continued use of the website after changes have been made constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.

Governing Law

These Terms of Use shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of Switzerland, without regard to conflict-of-law principles.

Contact

For questions regarding these Terms of Use, please contact:

5. Donation Transparency

Commitment to Responsible Stewardship

At EKIA Educational Foundation, philanthropic contributions are essential to advancing our mission of supporting meaningful educational initiatives and expanding access to transformative learning opportunities.

The Foundation is committed to managing all donations with the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship, ensuring that contributions are used exclusively to support the Foundation’s charitable objectives.

Use of Donations

Donations received by EKIA Educational Foundation support a range of initiatives aligned with the Foundation’s mission, including:

• Development of educational programs and learning initiatives
• Support for educators and professional development opportunities
• Educational research and knowledge advancement
• Community outreach and educational partnerships
• Expansion of access to high-quality learning environments

Funds are allocated in accordance with the Foundation’s strategic priorities and charitable purpose.

Financial Oversight

The responsible management of philanthropic resources is overseen by the Board of Trustees, which ensures that financial decisions align with the Foundation’s mission and governance framework.

Financial oversight includes:

• Strategic budgeting and financial planning
• Internal financial management procedures
• Monitoring of program expenditures
• Independent audit review where required by law or statute

These practices ensure that contributions are managed with diligence and integrity.

Donor Intent

EKIA Educational Foundation respects the intentions of its donors. Where contributions are designated for specific initiatives or purposes, the Foundation seeks to ensure that funds are used in accordance with the donor’s wishes and the Foundation’s mission.

Donor Privacy

The Foundation respects the confidentiality of donor information. Personal information related to donations is handled with discretion and in accordance with applicable Swiss data protection laws.

EKIA Educational Foundation does not sell, rent, or distribute donor information to third parties.

Transparency and Accountability

Through responsible governance and transparent financial practices, EKIA Educational Foundation aims to maintain the confidence of its donors, partners, and the broader public.

The Foundation believes that ethical stewardship and clear reporting are essential to effective philanthropy and long-term educational impact.

6. Governance & Oversight

Commitment to Responsible Stewardship

At EKIA Educational Foundation, strong governance is fundamental to fulfilling our mission and maintaining the trust of donors, partners, and the communities we serve.

The Foundation operates in accordance with Swiss foundation law and internationally recognized principles of nonprofit governance, ensuring that all activities are conducted with integrity, transparency, and responsible stewardship of resources.

Through structured oversight, clear accountability, and prudent financial management, the Foundation seeks to uphold the highest standards of philanthropic practice.

Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees serves as the governing body of EKIA Educational Foundation and holds ultimate responsibility for the strategic direction, governance, and oversight of the Foundation.

The Board ensures that the Foundation operates in accordance with its statutes and charitable objectives while maintaining compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.

Key responsibilities of the Board include:

• Defining the Foundation’s strategic vision and long-term priorities
• Safeguarding the Foundation’s mission and charitable purpose
• Overseeing the allocation and responsible use of philanthropic resources
• Ensuring sound governance and ethical conduct
• Supervising financial management and organizational performance

Members of the Board serve in a fiduciary capacity and are committed to acting in the best interests of the Foundation and its beneficiaries.

Executive Management

Where applicable, the Foundation’s day-to-day operations are entrusted to Executive Management, working under the strategic oversight of the Board of Trustees.

Executive leadership is responsible for implementing the Foundation’s programs, managing partnerships, coordinating initiatives, and ensuring that operational activities remain aligned with the Foundation’s mission and governance framework.

Regulatory Supervision

As a Swiss charitable foundation, EKIA Educational Foundation is subject to oversight by the competent Swiss foundation supervisory authority.

This regulatory supervision ensures that the Foundation:

• Operates in accordance with its statutory purpose
• Complies with Swiss legal requirements governing foundations
• Maintains responsible and transparent management of assets

The supervisory authority provides an additional layer of accountability to ensure that the Foundation’s activities remain aligned with the public interest.

Financial Oversight and Audit

The Foundation maintains robust financial governance practices designed to ensure responsible stewardship of resources.

Financial management includes:

• Structured budgeting and financial planning
• Internal financial controls
• Oversight by the Board of Trustees
• Independent audit review where required by law or statute

These mechanisms help ensure that funds entrusted to the Foundation are used effectively and in support of its charitable mission.

Ethical Standards

EKIA Educational Foundation is guided by principles of integrity, accountability, and transparency in all aspects of its work.

The Foundation strives to maintain ethical standards in:

• Philanthropic fundraising practices
• Partnerships and institutional collaboration
• Program implementation and evaluation
• Financial management and reporting

These principles reinforce the Foundation’s commitment to responsible governance and long-term impact.

Transparency and Public Accountability

Transparency is essential to maintaining the confidence of donors, partners, and the broader public.

The Foundation therefore provides clear information regarding its governance structure, legal framework, and operational practices through its Legal & Governance section.

This commitment reflects EKIA Educational Foundation’s belief that effective philanthropy requires both visionary leadership and accountable stewardship.

7. Ethical Fundraising & Donor Commitment

A Commitment to Responsible Philanthropy

At EKIA Educational Foundation, philanthropic support plays a vital role in advancing our mission to expand educational opportunity and promote meaningful learning experiences.

We are committed to conducting all fundraising activities with the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that every contribution is managed responsibly and in alignment with the Foundation’s charitable purpose.

Our approach to philanthropy reflects a deep respect for the trust placed in us by our donors and partners.

Ethical Fundraising Principles

EKIA Educational Foundation adheres to ethical fundraising practices designed to safeguard the interests of donors while supporting the long-term sustainability of our initiatives.

Our fundraising practices are guided by the following principles:

• Transparency – Clear communication regarding the Foundation’s mission, programs, and use of funds
• Integrity – Honest and responsible representation of fundraising activities
• Respect for Donors – Recognition of donor intentions and philanthropic priorities
• Accountability – Careful stewardship and oversight of philanthropic contributions
• Compliance – Adherence to Swiss legal requirements and nonprofit governance standards

These principles ensure that all fundraising efforts reflect the values and mission of the Foundation.

Stewardship of Donations

Contributions made to EKIA Educational Foundation are used exclusively to support the Foundation’s charitable objectives.

Donations help advance initiatives including:

• Educational program development
• Innovative curriculum initiatives
• Educator training and mentorship programs
• Educational research and partnerships
• Community outreach and access to learning opportunities

The Foundation maintains responsible financial oversight to ensure that philanthropic resources are allocated in support of initiatives that deliver meaningful educational impact.

Respect for Donor Intent

EKIA Educational Foundation honors the intentions and preferences of its donors.

Where donations are designated for specific initiatives or purposes, the Foundation strives to ensure that contributions are used in accordance with donor expectations and the Foundation’s mission.

The Foundation values long-term partnerships with donors who share a commitment to strengthening education and empowering future generations.

Donor Privacy

The Foundation respects the confidentiality and privacy of all donors.

Personal information provided in connection with philanthropic contributions is handled with discretion and in accordance with applicable Swiss data protection laws.

EKIA Educational Foundation does not sell, trade, or otherwise distribute donor information to third parties.

Responsible Communication

The Foundation seeks to maintain clear and respectful communication with its supporters.

Donors may receive updates regarding the progress and impact of initiatives supported by their contributions, allowing them to remain connected to the Foundation’s work.

Donors may request to modify or discontinue communications at any time.

Building Trust Through Transparency

EKIA Educational Foundation believes that effective philanthropy depends on trust, openness, and responsible stewardship.

By maintaining clear governance practices, transparent financial oversight, and ethical fundraising standards, the Foundation seeks to ensure that every contribution contributes to lasting educational impact.

8. Annual Impact & Financial Reporting

Commitment to Accountability

At EKIA Educational Foundation, transparency and responsible stewardship are central to our mission. The Foundation is committed to providing clear and meaningful information regarding the outcomes of its initiatives and the responsible management of philanthropic resources.

Through regular reporting and evaluation, the Foundation seeks to ensure that donors, partners, and stakeholders understand how contributions support the advancement of educational opportunity and innovation.

Measuring Educational Impact

EKIA Educational Foundation regularly assesses the effectiveness of its programs and initiatives to ensure that they align with the Foundation’s mission and deliver meaningful, sustainable outcomes.

Impact evaluation may include:

• Development and implementation of innovative educational programs
• Expansion of access to learning opportunities for students and communities
• Support for educator training and professional development
• Advancement of research and knowledge in educational practice
• Strategic collaborations that strengthen learning environments

These evaluations allow the Foundation to continuously improve its initiatives and maximize the positive impact of philanthropic support.

Annual Reporting

The Foundation prepares periodic summaries of its activities and achievements to provide transparency regarding the progress of its initiatives.

Annual reporting may include:

• Highlights of key educational programs and initiatives
• Milestones and developments achieved during the reporting period
• Strategic partnerships and collaborations
• Progress toward the Foundation’s long-term goals

These reports help ensure that donors and stakeholders remain informed about the work supported by the Foundation.

Financial Stewardship

EKIA Educational Foundation maintains responsible financial management practices designed to ensure that resources entrusted to the Foundation are used effectively and in accordance with its charitable purpose.

Financial oversight may include:

• Strategic budgeting and financial planning
• Monitoring of program expenditures
• Oversight by the Board of Trustees
• Independent audit review where required by law or the Foundation’s statutes

These practices help ensure transparency, accountability, and responsible use of philanthropic contributions.

Long-Term Impact

The progress achieved by EKIA Educational Foundation is made possible through the commitment of its donors, partners, and collaborators.

By combining responsible governance with a focus on meaningful educational initiatives, the Foundation strives to support learning environments that empower individuals, strengthen communities, and contribute to the advancement of education for future generations.