Statistische Erfassung von Organisationen ohne Erwerbscharakter (Nonprofit-Organisationen, NPO)

Non-profit organizations or NPO are social organizations which differ in purpose, tasks and structure from private and public enterprises. Their most destined ve trait is an orientation which foregoes making a profit. Thus achieving specific goals becomes the major purpose. The spectrum of NPOs extends from church, social and charitable organizations on to economic associations and other special interest groups as well as sporting, cultural and idealistic associations ans scientific institutions. For statistical classification, the legal form - association or foundation - has proved a suitable criterion. Investigatins show that at many points in Switzerland data on NPOs are obtained but not subjected to systematic evaluation. The multi-layered character of the Third Sector calls for adapting concepts and classifications. The heterogeneity of this neihter public nor private area often enables the boundaries between NPOs ans other organizations to dissapear. Yet the meaning and influence of the NPOs in Switzerland justify the call for a better statistical record as the basis for an intensified debate on NPOs.