United Nations in Geneva: From Citizen Science, Humanitarian Diplomacy to Artificial Intelligence

The United Nations in Geneva program highlights the most important aspects of peace, negotiations, scientific innovation, technological progress, and diplomacy. Switzerland has been hosting international organizations and conferences for over 150 years. This role as a host nation is deeply rooted in Switzerland’s tradition of humanitarianism and mediation. Switzerland plays a central role in world politics and was elected to the United Nations Security Council for 2023-2024. The city of Geneva is not just a host but a collaborative hub for international and non-governmental organizations, important scientific and academic institutions, civil society, and the private sector. Together, they work tirelessly to address our societies’ global challenges. This collective effort is the reason behind the term ‘International Geneva,’ recognizing its vital role in cooperation and its leadership in multilateral diplomacy, citizen diplomacy, and technological innovation. Geneva is home to 43 international organizations in the Lake Geneva Region (46 in total in Switzerland), including the European Organization for Nuclear Research (the world’s largest particle physics laboratory) and the Biotech Campus (a Swiss institution hosting research institutes and biotech companies). It hosts 181 states, about 750 non-governmental organizations, roughly 32,000 international civil servants, diplomats, and civil society representatives, and more than 4,000 annual visits by heads of state and government, ministers, and other dignitaries.

This comprehensive program offers a diverse array of activities designed to provide an immersive experience across various domains, including the capital city of Berne. Participants will undertake seven alpine hikes, facilitating in-depth engagement with mountain ecosystems and experiential outdoor learning. The itinerary includes multiple train and bus journeys through scenic countryside and mountainous regions, offering opportunities to observe regional geography and a highly developed transportation infrastructure. Additionally, the program features meetings with several distinguished dignitaries, including ambassadors and representatives of Nobel Peace laureate organizations, enabling high-level discourse on global issues. Networking meals with alumni residing in Switzerland further foster professional connections and knowledge exchange, while unique engagement opportunities allow for experiential learning beyond conventional academic settings.

Check out photos from the 2025 Dialogue on Instagram @thegenevadialogue.

View the Global Experience Office website for more information.