If you are interested in providing this experience to your group of high school students, university students in undergraduate or graduate programs, or to your faculty and university management, please send us an email. Programs can only be arranged in partnership with an educational partner. WFUNA is not currently accepting individual applications for our Training Programs.
Geneva, Switzerland
Role in the UN
Geneva, Switzerland, serves as a crucial hub for international diplomacy and global governance, primarily through its role as the home of the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG). The UNOG is one of the four major offices of the United Nations, the others being in New York, Vienna, and Nairobi. As the European Headquarters of the UN, the Geneva office plays a pivotal role in the organization’s operations and initiatives, fostering international cooperation and promoting peace, security, and human rights.
History
Geneva’s association with international diplomacy dates back to the establishment of the League of Nations in 1920, the precursor to the United Nations. When the League was dissolved after World War II, its buildings and infrastructure were repurposed for the newly formed United Nations. The Palais des Nations, originally built to house the League of Nations, became the home of the UNOG.
The UNOG supports a wide range of UN activities and serves as a central venue for international negotiations and conferences. Its functions and responsibilities include:
Today Geneva is home to 40 international organizations, 400 NGOs and 180 permanent missions.
Cultural Experience
Geneva is a city of cultural richness and diversity due to the presence of international organizations. Ther are many key stops to explore like the jet d’Eau fountain in Lake Geneva, the historic St. Pierre Cathedral or a walk through the old town with ancient buildings and wonderful views. There are also many museums to visit such as the Red Cross Museum, the Museum of Natural History and the Patek Philippe Museum. You might want to enjoy the many culinary options the city has including fondue, raclette and the famous Swiss chocolate.
