The role of multilateral organisations in international cooperation

A conference organised by the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs FDFA took place on 20 November. The theme of the meeting was to discuss the role of multilateral organisations in addressing global challenges and strengthening international cooperation.

Martin Borgeaud, Senior Advisor to the UN and Multilateral Development Banks, and Piras Thomas, Senior Advisor to the World Bank Group, came to meet with the students from Bern. They shared their unique experiences with the students and analysed the current challenges facing the international community.

The speakers stressed that multilateral organisations such as the UN and the World Bank play a crucial role in sustainable development, conflict prevention and crisis response. In the context of globalisation, these structures help coordinate the efforts of states to achieve common goals, finance projects aimed at developing infrastructure, health and education, and promote the principles of inclusion and equality.

They also noted that international cooperation through multilateral organisations not only pooled resources but also built trust among countries, which was critical to addressing issues such as climate change, poverty alleviation and peace.

Particular attention was paid to Switzerland’s significant role in international relations, especially in the context of multilateral co-operation. Switzerland, known for its policy of neutrality and long tradition of diplomacy, makes a notable contribution to strengthening dialogue between countries, promoting humanitarian values and supporting global initiatives. As a hub for many key international organisations, the country provides a platform for dialogue and solutions to promote peace and security, and is also active in financing projects related to sustainable development, humanitarian aid and climate policy.

The conference provided students with a unique opportunity to ask questions of experts and discuss the prospects of their professional careers in international structures. The meeting participants noted that such initiatives help popularise the ideas of global solidarity and create a new generation of leaders ready to work on solving the world’s problems.