The principle of a rules-based international order is increasingly under strain. Along with it, the multilateral mechanisms for protecting human rights, and International Geneva itself, are faltering. Can its institutions find renewed purpose?
As a central hub of multilateralism, International Geneva and its institutions are facing their most serious crisis to date. An economic crisis driven by funding cuts from the United States and other states is compounded by a crisis of legitimacy. International human rights protection mechanisms are among the hardest hit. How can multilateralism and the defence of human rights be revitalised? What role can, or should, Switzerland and Geneva contribute to play in global governance?
Welcome remarks:
- Nathalie Fontanet, State Councillor, State and Republic of Geneva
- Stephan Schlegel, Director, Swiss Human Rights Institution
Every form of solidarity has its limits and casts its shadows. Solidarity is a cinematic reflection on solidarity as a phenomenon. The film screening (2025; 90 minutes; in French, Arabic, Polish, English and German, with English and French subtitles) will be followed by a panel discussion moderated by Davide Rodogno, Professor of International History and Politics at the Geneva Graduate Institute, with:
- Heba Aly, Director, Article 109
- Yves Daccord, Chairman, Principles for Peace
- Itonde Kakoma, President, Interpeace
- Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights
This event is organised in partnership with the International Film Festival and Forum on Human Rights, which will take place from March 6 to 15, 2026, and the Swiss Human Rights Institution, with the support of the International Affairs Directorate of the State and Republic of Geneva.
Simultaneous interpretation from English into French will be provided.
