The Swiss-Liechtenstein Foundation for Archaeological Research Abroad (SLSA) was founded in 1986 with the personal involvement of Prince Hans-Adam II of Liechtenstein. It promotes the research and rescue of archaeological sites, monuments and objects within the framework of international archaeological solidarity. Its focus is on developing and emerging countries that can particularly benefit from the know-how of highly developed Swiss archaeology. The Foundation is subject to the supervision of the Federal Department of Home Affairs.

According to the foundation charter, the SLSA is made up of the Foundation Council, the Foundation Assembly and the external auditor. The Foundation Council has appointed a Board, a Scientific Commission and a Finance Commission as additional bodies; day-to-day business is handled by a Managing Director in the General Secretariat.

The Foundation Council consists of 9 or more members, at least 4 of whom must come from academia. At the moment, the Foundation Council comprises 13 members. It is responsible for the operational direction of the foundation within the framework of the foundation charter, determining the internal organization of the foundation, electing the members of the Board and the commissions, approving the annual activity report, the financial statements and approving the budget. It meets at least once a year.

During the year, the Board takes the running decisions. In particular, it approves the projects supported by the foundation and determines the grant amount, and it monitors the investment of the financial assets.

The Board is advised by the two expert bodies of the Scientific Commission and the Finance Commission.

The Board, Scientific Commission and Finance Commission generally meet twice a year, or more often if necessary. All members of Board, commissions and Council work on a voluntary basis; the Managing Director, who handles day-to-day business and is responsible for editing the publications, is employed on a part-time basis.

At the Foundation Assembly, patrons and donors are informed about the foundation’s activities. It traditionally takes place, usually once a year, at the Zunfthaus zur Waag at the invitation of the President, together with a guest lecture on one of the sponsored projects.

Patron members are also offered guided tours of museums, member trips or invitations to lectures at irregular intervals.

Since 2017, the Finanzkontrolle der Stadt Zürich functions as external auditor.