Why we do it

Cities concentrate most of the world population and are at the heart of economic growth. Significantly impacted by climate change, pandemics, disasters, unemployment, mass migration, etc., cities and local governments are on the front lines of crises and emergencies, responding with innovative and effective solutions to meet the needs of their communities. 

Following Covid-19, there is now more than ever widespread recognition that cities play a key role in tackling global challenges. It follows that their voices should be better heard in multilateral processes and bodies that address those challenges.

Geneva is the main operational hub of the United Nations. International Geneva addresses a broad array of issues, including peace, security and disarmament, humanitarian action and law, human rights, migration, labour, economics, trade, science, telecommunications, health, the environment, and sustainable development. 

The city hosts an unmatched number of International Organizations, NGOs, Permanent Missions, world-class academic institutions and multinationals, which meet regularly, work on virtually every topic critical to globalization, and have a real impact on people’s lives.

Local governments are represented at many of Geneva’s multilateral meetings. They come to plead their cause and find technical expertise, and equally are solicited by UN agencies and other actors, which recognize that cities make a vital contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and tackling the world’s most pressing challenges.

The contribution of cities can be further reinforced. As cities become more prominent in international affairs, the Geneva Cities Hub is well placed to support efforts to increase their influence in global governance.