A world centre for internationality and innovation

July 2024

Known as the home of numerous international organisations and a centre for global cooperation, Geneva has confirmed its status as a leading city for global dialogue and development. With an impressive infrastructure and a highly developed research and development scene, the city continually attracts multinational companies and international conferences.

Geneva plays a central role on the international stage, not only as the home of the United Nations and nearly 400 NGOs, but also as the headquarters of numerous multinationals, particularly in the fields of research and development. This position underlines Geneva’s importance as a global centre for international cooperation, supported by an academic landscape that is among the best in the world.

Excellence in infrastructure
As one of the most business-friendly cities in Europe, Geneva has an excellent infrastructure that attracts international conferences and business travellers. Geneva International Airport, just a few minutes from the city centre, offers direct flights to some 150 destinations worldwide. The well-developed international rail network, including the TGV, which reaches Paris in just three hours, and the Léman Express, Europe’s largest regional rail network, considerably enhances Geneva’s accessibility.

Promoting multilateral discussions
Geneva hosts major international discussions, from the United Nations to world economic forums and the International Committee of the Red Cross. These discussions are part of Geneva’s heritage and reflect the city as a crossroads for international negotiations and arbitration. Here, the World Intellectual Property Organisation documents the many innovations that have emerged from local research and development centres.

Sustainable urban development
In addition to its role as an international centre, Geneva is setting new standards in sustainable urban development. A subsidy programme with a budget of CHF 500 million is aimed at accelerating the energy renovation of buildings and meeting climate targets. This commitment shows that Geneva is striving to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, and supports private and public property owners in modernising their real estate.
Geneva is an impressive demonstration of how a city can be both a centre of international politics and economics and a centre for promoting sustainable development. Thanks to this dual role, Geneva is strengthening its position as a place where global challenges are tackled innovatively and effectively.

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