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Legal and Social Support for Immigrants and Refugees in Switzerland
Lighthouse Media platform is an informational and legal resource for expats, immigrants, and individuals affected by war. We provide guidance on the Swiss legal system, social integration,  refugee rights, and welfare programs.

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Experts

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Valentyn Spasybo

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Davit Tabatadze

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Jacques Gerber

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Dr. Gero Kühne

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Andreas Dreisiebner

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Mary Mayenfisch-Tobin

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Dmytro Sidenko

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Butenko Alexey

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Alexander Walker MBE

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Dr. Daniel M. Porcedda

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Olivier Védrine

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Alex Lenaerts

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Dr. Haris Piplas

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Sven Henniger

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Pavlo Byelousov

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Konstiantyn Gura

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Tatsiana Lintouskaya

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Willem Hoefnagels

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Larissa Verbitskaya

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Michael Goldinger

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Dr.Iryna Ptashnyk

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Natalia Fiebrig

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Kostiantyn Gura

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Anne Bercio

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Inna Sovsun

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Vitaliy Radchenko

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Alexander Romanishyn

Veronika

Veronika Dudak

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Tetyana Kostyuk

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Iurie Moraru

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Anastasiia Dziuba

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Tetyana Kostyuk

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Iurie Moraru

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Anastasiia Dziuba

Cases

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Valentyn Spasybo

Business lawyer and tax consultant in Ukrainian law
Specialization: Business support and protection of foreign investors’ rights. Legal experience since 1993. Since 1999 – licensed attorney. Founded own company providing tax and legal support for businesses. Until February 2022, provided legal support to companies across various sectors: real estate development, airports, food industry, equipment manufacturing, beauty industry, IT sector, and others. Since 2025, working as a lawyer at the Swiss lawfirm QOURUS GmbH, representing and protecting the interests of foreign investors in Ukraine.
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Davit Tabatadze

Head of Litigation at BLC Law Office, Chairman of the Board at the Georgian Association of Arbitrators
Davit Tabatadze — Senior Lawyer & Head of Litigation, BLC Law Office He began practicing law in 2012 and has been with BLC since 2013, progressing from paralegal to head of the litigation department. Expertise: Commercial, administrative, and IP disputes, as well as commercial arbitration. Education & Academic Work: Davit holds an LL.M. (Wake Forest University, USA, 2018) and is a Ph.D. candidate at New Vision University (Georgia, 2021). He also teaches courses on civil procedure, private international law, and international civil litigation at Georgian universities. Professional Achievements: Author of numerous publications on choice of law and jurisdiction, contract adaptation to changed circumstances, and burden of proof in civil cases; winner of the “Best Speaker Award” at the national Moot Court competition (2013); participant in major disputes and arbitrations, reinforcing BLC’s position as a leading dispute resolution firm. Davit Tabatadze combines strong academic credentials with extensive practical experience, providing reliable and insightful expertise for legal and investment projects, particularly at the intersection of European and post-Soviet legal systems.
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Jacques Gerber

Federal Council Delegate for Ukraine, Ambassador
Jacques Gerber, Federal Council Delegate for Ukraine, Ambassador Jacques Gerber is a Swiss public administrator with extensive experience in economic governance, international coordination, and the implementation of large-scale governmental programs. His background is particularly relevant in the context of Ukraine’s recovery, where effective synchronization of economic, infrastructure, and administrative decisions is essential. Gerber holds an academic background in agricultural economics, including a PhD from ETH Zurich, and began his career within research institutions. His early work focused on economic analysis and sustainable development — competencies that are crucial in designing long-term reconstruction strategies for countries emerging from crisis. At the federal level, he held senior positions at the Swiss Federal Office for Agriculture, where he was responsible for relations with international bodies (including the OECD) and for managing international economic coordination. This experience shaped him as a specialist capable of building complex, multi-agency processes. From 2015 onward, Jacques Gerber served in the Government of the Canton of Jura, leading the Department of Economy and Health. Under his leadership, the canton implemented economic development initiatives, investment programs, and policies related to sustainability and administrative efficiency. He twice served as President of the Cantonal Government and was Vice President of the Conference of Cantonal Governments — a national-level platform for harmonizing intergovernmental policies. In September 2024, the Swiss Federal Council appointed Gerber as the Delegate for Switzerland’s Ukraine Programme (“Länderprogramm Ukraine”). He will assume this position on 1 January 2025, with the diplomatic rank of Ambassador. In this role, he will lead an interdepartmental group uniting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, SECO, SDC, and other federal actors responsible for Switzerland’s recovery efforts in Ukraine. His mandate includes strategic coordination and the approval of projects of up to CHF 10 million. For international investors, his appointment is strategically significant: Gerber becomes a key point of contact in the dialogue between Switzerland, the private sector, and Ukrainian partners. For Lighthouse, this means the opportunity to engage with the individual responsible for aligning federal support mechanisms, ensuring transparency, and integrating international initiatives into the broader architecture of Ukraine’s reconstruction.
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Dr. Gero Kühne

Marketinglösungen für Schweizer KMU | Digitale Strategien & Tools | Gründer & Inhaber @ Lean & Sharp
Dr. Gero Kühne is a seasoned Swiss entrepreneur and digital strategy expert, recognised for his strong track record in growth hacking, web development and digital transformation. He is the Founder and Owner of Lean & Sharp GmbH, a boutique digital agency with locations in Switzerland and Ukraine. The company supports businesses of all sizes with SEO, SEA, web design, and customised digital growth tools.
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Andreas Dreisiebner

Andreas Dreisiebner - WepfAir AG, Growsolutions, Energiewendegenossenschaft Region Winterthur logo, Solarspar · Part-timeSolarspar
Andreas Dreisiebner Andreas Dreisiebner is a Swiss entrepreneur and sustainability innovator, leading A777 Gartengestaltung (Zurich) since 1992. Originally trained in landscape architecture, he gradually expanded his work into urban green infrastructure — including green roofs, vertical gardens, and integrated renewable energy systems. As a board member of Solarspar, Andreas has been actively involved in R&D projects focused on combining solar technology with biodiverse rooftop greening — even under extreme environmental conditions. Since 2015, he has represented Switzerland as Vice-Chair of the Group of Experts on Renewable Energy at the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). His work reflects a deep commitment to merging ecological principles with technical innovation — proving that sustainable development is not just about efficiency, but also about care for future generations.
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Mary Mayenfisch-Tobin

Business and Human Rights Expert
Mary Mayenfisch-Tobin Lighthouse Legal Advisory is pleased to highlight Mary Mayenfisch-Tobin — a Switzerland-based professional engaged at the intersection of law, ethics, and responsible leadership. Her work focuses on dialogue around business & human rights, diversity, and inclusion. We value Mary’s contribution to conversations that connect legal practice with impact and positive change.
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Dmytro Sidenko

President of the Ukrainian-Swiss Business Association and a partner of the SURA initiative.
Dmytro Sidenko is the President of the Ukrainian-Swiss Business Association and a partner of the SURA initiative. He plays a key role in fostering economic dialogue between Ukraine and Switzerland. His work focuses on supporting Ukrainian entrepreneurs in entering the Swiss market, attracting foreign investment, and strengthening bilateral business relations — including strategic projects such as the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding between SURA and DTEK Group. With deep knowledge of both business environments and hands-on experience, Dmytro serves as a vital connector in advancing impactful cross-border economic initiatives.
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Butenko Alexey

CEO of Naftogaz Bioenergy, expert in renewable energy
Butenko Alexey is an expert in energy infrastructure development and crisis management. He currently serves as CEO of Naftogaz Bioenergy, a subsidiary of Ukraine’s national energy company, Naftogaz Group, where he leads renewable energy projects and sustainability initiatives. He is also the founder of Butenko Energy, a company focused on decentralized heat generation and infrastructure recovery in Ukraine. Over the past 15 years, Mr. Butenko has managed more than 20 large-scale energy projects involving biomass, biogas, and combined heat and power (CHP) facilities. One of his most notable achievements includes leading the construction of a 40 MW biomass power plant in Okhtyrka, completed in under 100 days during wartime conditions. He has collaborated with international financial institutions such as the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and continues to support local authorities and private partners in developing energy resilience strategies. His areas of focus include post-crisis energy recovery, investment structuring for sustainable projects, and cross-sector collaboration in infrastructure rebuilding.
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Alexander Walker MBE

Co-Founder, Milton Advisers
Alexander Walker is a British strategic adviser, public affairs specialist, and co-founder of Milton Advisers. He has extensive experience in government relations, policy analysis, and strategic communications across Europe and emerging markets. His work focuses on building resilient institutions, supporting democratic reforms, and advising on international partnerships in complex geopolitical contexts. Alexander was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for his contributions to public service and politics. He regularly publishes insights on European security, British foreign policy, and democratic development, and Ukraine’s recovery.
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Dr. Daniel M. Porcedda

Innovation Strategist & Brand Development Leader
Dr. Daniel M. Porcedda is a Luxembourg-born legal scholar, structural engineer, and certified PR and advertising specialist. His expertise is further enriched by advanced studies in advertising psychology, giving him a unique perspective on strategic communication and market positioning. With decades of experience advising companies across Europe and over 20 years working in Ukraine, Dr. Porcedda focuses on innovation strategies, brand development, and business transformation. He combines technical excellence with deep insights into human behaviour, creating impactful solutions that drive sustainable growth.
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Olivier Védrine

Professor (h.c.), Journalist, Administrator of the Jean Monnet Association
Olivier Védrine is a French political scientist and public intellectual with long-standing engagement in European affairs, democratic development, and strategic communication. He holds an International Executive MBA from the International School of Management (ISM Paris) and has completed executive programs at the Institute for Higher National Defence Studies (IHEDN, France) and the College of Europe at the European Commission in Brussels. From 2007 to 2014, he served as a lecturer and speaker in the Team Europe France expert network on behalf of the European Commission. Védrine is currently a board member of the Jean Monnet Association, where he contributes to advancing European values and dialogue. He is also active in public diplomacy and regularly participates in international conferences focused on Ukraine, European security, and democratic resilience.
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Alex Lenaerts

Belgian diplomat
Alex Lenaerts Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Ukraine (2018–2022) Alex Lenaerts is a Belgian diplomat who played a key role in strengthening bilateral relations between Belgium and Ukraine and advancing Ukraine’s European integration. During his tenure as Ambassador, he actively promoted the rule of law, human rights, and sustainable development. He is also known for his advocacy of Fair Trade principles, emphasizing the importance of ethical standards, environmental protection, and workers’ rights in the modern economy. With his experience, intellectual depth, and humanistic approach, Mr. Lenaerts continues to contribute meaningfully to public and expert discussions on Ukraine’s path toward becoming a full member of the European community.
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Dr. Haris Piplas

Urban Strategist, Lecturer at ETH Zurich.Director Integrated Urban Solutions International Drees&Sommer
Dr. Haris Piplas worked on urban planning, landscape, and architectural projects across Europe, Latin America, China, and North Africa. He co-authored Global Urban Toolbox and City Action Lab: Urban Transformations in Central and Eastern Europe, focusing on spatial and infrastructural challenges in global cities. Dr. Piplas curated a national pavilion at the 15th Venice Architecture Biennale and guest-edited two IFLA Europe Journal editions. He is affiliated with AESOP, ISOCARP, and the European Forum Alpbach, and is a nominee for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. His work connects design, research, and urban governance — with a special interest in sustainable and resilient city development.
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Sven Henniger

Partner HWC LLC (Henniger Winkelmann Consulting), VP Swiss-Ukrainian Reconstruction Agency SURA
Sven Henniger Partner at Henniger Winkelmann Consulting (Kyiv) Sven Henniger is a seasoned advisor supporting Western businesses with market entry and expansion in Ukraine for over 15 years. He actively promotes economic ties between the DACH region and Ukraine and has held leadership roles such as CFO of the German Business Association in Kyiv and Ukraine Chapter Head at the Joint Chamber of Commerce (JCC).
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Pavlo Byelousov

Partner BonoLegal, Ukrainian law expert
Pavlo Bielousov Partner at the law firm BONO Legal. With over 20 years of experience, Pavlo specializes in international arbitration and litigation, with a particular focus on investment and energy-related disputes. He has served as both counsel and arbitrator in numerous cross-border proceedings and frequently advises on complex cases involving foreign investments and Ukrainian law.
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Konstiantyn Gura

Director of the Center for Sustainable Development “GreenLabsKNU”
Kostiantyn Gura Director of the Center for Sustainable Development “GreenLabsKNU” (Kyiv National University), Chairman of the Supervisory Board at NGO “Ukraine2Power”, Vice-Chair of the UNECE Group of Experts on Renewable Energy. Expert in sustainability, climate policy, and international energy cooperation.
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Tatsiana Lintouskaya

Project Manager, EU Academy Tatsiana Lintouskaya is an experienced international policy expert and project leader, currently managing the establishment of the EU Academy — a platform designed to promote knowledge exchange and institutional development within the European context. She has held senior roles in international organizations and government institutions, including: – Program Director at Salzburg Global Seminar – Expert at the International Finance Corporation (IFC) – Expert at the International Labour Organization (ILO) – First Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus – Expert at the Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations of Belarus Education: – Johns Hopkins University, School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) – Belarusian State Economic University
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Willem Hoefnagels

Project Manager, EU Academy | Business Consultant for the Netherlands & Belgium
Project Manager, EU Academy | Business Consultant for the Netherlands & Belgium Willem Hoefnagels is an experienced European legal and policy professional with a diverse international background. As Project Manager for the establishment of the EU Academy, he contributes to the development of strategic knowledge-sharing platforms within the European Union. He also serves as a business consultant, supporting cross-border initiatives between the Netherlands, Belgium, and EU partners. Willem has served as an advisor in the European Parliament and worked in leadership roles within the financial sector, including as Compliance Manager at BNP Paribas and Branch Manager at Generale Bank. His professional experience extends to election monitoring in Georgia and civic engagement, including public support for Ukraine during the 2013 Maidan movement. He is the founder of ELSA the Netherlands and ELSA Alumni International and has been actively involved in global youth and sports initiatives such as the Special Olympics and Youth Olympics. Education: LL.M. (Master of Laws), Tilburg University, the Netherlands Postgraduate Studies in International Politics, Clingendael Institute, The Hague
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Larissa Verbitskaya

Co-founder, Endowment for Social Innovation Mentor & Investor in Social Enterprises Supporting Ukrainian-led Ventures
CEO and Co-founder of UkraineNow.ch, mentor within the Seeds of Bravery initiative, and GESI (Gender Equality, Social Inclusion, and Engagement) expert at the World Economic Forum (WEF). She brings a strong focus on inclusive leadership, sustainable innovation, and cross-sector collaboration between Switzerland, the EU, and Ukraine.
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Michael Goldinger

Initiator und Gründer der „EU-Academy“ | Strategieberatung, EU-Recht
Master of Laws and founder of the European Law Students’ Association (ELSA). Provides strategic consulting in EU law, competition policy, and regulatory compliance. Recognized for his expertise in European legal frameworks and cross-border regulatory strategy.
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Dr.Iryna Ptashnyk

Senior Research and Development Expert
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Natalia Fiebrig

Ukrainische Journalistin, Moderatorin und NGO-Gründerin
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Kostiantyn Gura

Director of GreenLabsKNU, Deputy Head of UNECE Renewable Energy Bureau, Chair of Ukraine2Power
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Anne Bercio

Counsellor, Trade Section, EU Delegation to Ukraine
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Inna Sovsun

Member of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine
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Vitaliy Radchenko

Partner CMS International Law Firm in Ukraine
Vitaliy Radchenko - lawyer with a profound experience in and understanding of the Energy sector and Corporate / M&A focus in Energy transactions. M&A, Regulatory, Contracts and Transactions in: - Oil & Gas upstream projects and trading (AIPN / EFET) - Conventional and Renewable Power Generation projects - Carbon Trading & Emission Reduction projects - Waste-to-Energy - Telecommunications, Media, IT/Software - Insurance
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Alexander Romanishyn

Politician, Former Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine, Board Member, Think Tank ISE Group
Alexander Romanishyn - top Executive with over 15 years experience of business development and strategic investments with particular focus on the area of innovation and digital transformation, IT-enabled businesses, startups, M&A advisory and growth capital. Significant international experience, especially in the Middle East and Europe.
Ukraine fund
Ukraine’s reconstruction
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Veronika Dudak

PR & Digitalization officer
Veronika Dudak has degrees in urban transport engineering and economics. She worked as an economist at “Kyivpastrans” and later as chief economist in construction. For nearly 10 years, she has led the “Believe in Yourself” foundation, supporting vulnerable children in Ukraine. After Russia’s invasion, she moved to Switzerland, completed the CAS Rebuild Ukraine program, and volunteers actively
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Tetyana Kostyuk

Tetyana Kostyuk - achievement-driven specialist in communication, international and public relations with outstanding qualifications in all phases of corporate and government communications. Expert in data privacy and reputation protection for individuals and legal entities at Swiss law firm
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Iurie Moraru

International Financial Expert, VP of Joint Chamber of Commerce Switzerland, member of SURA
Iurie Moraru – Independent financial expert with 20+ years of experience in banking, wealth management, asset structuring, investment strategy, and due diligence. Board Advisor at Dokia Capital (Monaco), Counsellor at Quorus Law Firm (Zürich), and Board Member of The Open Internet Foundation (Distrikt.io). Full member of STEP, Member of the Swiss-Ukrainian Reconstruction Agency Steering Committee, and Vice President of the Joint Chamber of Commerce Switzerland – Eastern.
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Anastasiia Dziuba

PhD in Law, legal advisor, expert in Swiss and European regulations
Anastasiia Dziuba - expert in Swiss and European regulations, protection of investment legal frameworks and compliance, lawyer at the Swiss law firm, PhD in Law, CAS “In-house Counsel” degree at the University of Zürich, member of the Swiss Association for Foreign Policy and Swiss AI Association, AI Business Integration Expert at IT company Softengi LLC, Co-Founder of Swiss charitable Association Free Ukraine Global
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Tetyana Kostyuk

Tetyana Kostyuk - achievement-driven specialist in communication, international and public relations with outstanding qualifications in all phases of corporate and government communications. Expert in data privacy and reputation protection for individuals and legal entities at Swiss law firm
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Iurie Moraru

International Financial Expert, VP of Joint Chamber of Commerce Switzerland, member of SURA
Iurie Moraru – Independent financial expert with 20+ years of experience in banking, wealth management, asset structuring, investment strategy, and due diligence. Board Advisor at Dokia Capital (Monaco), Counsellor at Quorus Law Firm (Zürich), and Board Member of The Open Internet Foundation (Distrikt.io). Full member of STEP, Member of the Swiss-Ukrainian Reconstruction Agency Steering Committee, and Vice President of the Joint Chamber of Commerce Switzerland – Eastern.
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Anastasiia Dziuba

PhD in Law, legal advisor, expert in Swiss and European regulations
Anastasiia Dziuba - expert in Swiss and European regulations, protection of investment legal frameworks and compliance, lawyer at the Swiss law firm, PhD in Law, CAS “In-house Counsel” degree at the University of Zürich, member of the Swiss Association for Foreign Policy and Swiss AI Association, AI Business Integration Expert at IT company Softengi LLC, Co-Founder of Swiss charitable Association Free Ukraine Global