Making Multilateralism Work for Humanity in a New Era

As multilateralism faces mounting geopolitical tensions, financial pressures and competing narratives, this high-level event will explore how global cooperation can adapt and remain effective. Building on Geneva’s unique ecosystem and the momentum of the UN80 reform, the discussion will assess current risks and opportunities, explore avenues to strengthen institutional agility, and highlight how innovation, new funding models and strategic partnerships can drive greater impact. The event will outline priorities for “Multilateralism 2.0” and concrete pathways for delivering global public goods despite constrained resources.

Welcome speech
- Guy Parmelin, President of the Swiss Confederation in 2026, Head of the Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research 

Podium speakers:
- Ignazio Cassis, Federal Councillor, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA)
- Guilherme De Aguilar Patriota, Permanent Representative of Brazil to the WTO
- Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director General of WHO
- Rebecca Grynspan, Secretary General of UNCTAD 
- Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary General of ITU
- Nathalie Fontanet, Finance Minister, Canton of Geneva 
- James Manyika, Senior Vice-President, Google 
- Sheba Croker, Managing Director, World Economic Forum 

Moderation
- Dr. Adam Day, Head of UN University Office in Geneva

Contact for information & media requests:
- Ballenegger Frédéric, Communication Specialist, frederic.ballenegger@eda.admin.ch