Three out of five babies left in Swiss baby boxes reunited with parents

Parents in Switzerland have successfully reunited with three out of five infants left in baby boxes at the Bethesda hospital in Basel.

Since the facility opened in November 2015, five newborns have been placed in the box. While three children returned to their biological families, the status of a girl born in May remains uncertain. Her mother wants to reclaim the child, who is currently living in a foster home.

The government of Basel-Campagne stated that the chances of reunifying the family are good. This situation reflects a broader trend across the country where baby boxes provide a way for parents to surrender children safely. Switzerland currently operates eight of these boxes in various locations including Bellinzone, Berne, and Sion. Over the last 25 years, 32 children have been left in these boxes across the nation. The first box opened in Einsiedeln in 2001.

Authorities continue to monitor these cases to facilitate safe placements and family reunions.