International institutions, permanent missions and non-governmental organisations

les drapeaux du siège de l'ONU

The City of Geneva is fully committed to its role as a host city. Its actions are designed to promote continuity and, as far as possible, the city works to create the conditions conducive to the installation of international organisations and other entities within the region linked to international Geneva.

Today, more than 30 international organisations, including the United Nations Office at Geneva (ONUG), are present and active in Geneva. Furthermore, 176 foreign governments are represented here with either a mission or permanent representation in the ONUG and other international organisations such as the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the Conference on Disarmament (CD). More than 400 non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have also made their home here, some 250 of which enjoy advisory status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). As a result, almost 30,000 employees contribute to international cooperation from their base in Geneva.

How the City of Geneva contributes to international Geneva

The City of Geneva plays an important role in the installation of international organisations, NGOs and permanent missions in Geneva. In particular, this can be seen in the granting of building permits, support for and organisation of events and receptions and the city’s contribution to funding the renovation of certain buildings.

The City of Geneva also provides services which contribute to the quality of life that is essential to offering the international community a warm welcome. This includes, for example, a rich cultural offering, sports facilities, nurseries and green areas which also benefit the population of Geneva as a whole.

The City of Geneva also provides funding for local institutions, thereby facilitating the integration of employees of international Geneva and their families. The municipal authorities and departments are involved in this action, and in particular the External Relations Department (SRE) which is specifically tasked with monitoring the dossiers linked to international Geneva.

Promoting the link between local Geneva and international Geneva

The City of Geneva also encourages the civil society to participate in the debates and activities of international Geneva with a view to fostering a closer relationship between local Geneva and international Geneva.

To make the inhabitants of Geneva more aware of the different issues and careers involved in international Geneva, a series of three-minute videos presenting portraits of the men and women working in the field of international cooperation in Geneva has been produced. This project was developed by Radio Télévision Suisse (RTS) in collaboration with the Swiss Confederation, the Republic and Canton of Geneva, the City of Geneva and the Foundation for Geneva.

Contact

Service des relations extérieures et de la communication

Pascal Rapillard

Chef de service

Rue de la Croix-Rouge 4

1204

Genève

Suisse

Article modifié le 05.02.2024 à 11:57