Geneva offers a powerful platform to shape global AI discussions

The strategic importance of AI and data for innovation, security and sovereignty is intensifying. Geneva is well positioned to drive a global agenda for trustworthy AI for the common good, built on high-quality data.

Opinion editorial by Simone de Montmollin, Swiss National Councillor

AI and data have become defining issues for peace and stability

The international order is facing increasing strain, driven in particular by geopolitical fragmentation, technological rivalry and a growing US retreat from multilateralism. At the same time, the strategic importance of AI and data is intensifying. Nations are racing to secure these assets — not only for innovation and economic power but also for security and sovereignty. How these strategic levers are governed, and by whom, has become a defining question for peace and stability.

Trustworthy AI is more critical than ever

In this context, trustworthy AI — built on high-quality data and serving the common good — is more critical than ever. Switzerland is well positioned to drive this agenda globally. Its scientific excellence, robust data infrastructure and strong ties between academia and industry are complemented by institutions with deep experience in shaping international norms, as well as a longstanding reputation for neutrality and collaboration. SIB exemplifies this in the life sciences by providing data resources, expertise and standards that underpin reliable AI, enable Swiss innovation and deliver tangible societal benefits.

SIB exemplifies trustworthy AI for the common good.

Simone de Montmollin

Swiss National Councillor

Geneva: a hub of high-quality data and major AI conferences

Geneva’s unique concentration of diplomacy, science and international organizations offers a powerful platform not only to host, but also to shape, discussions on AI governance, cyber-security and shared digital infrastructure. This role — and Geneva’s position as a global hub for high-quality data — is further reinforced by major upcoming conferences, including the first UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance, the European Conference for Computational Biology organized by SIB, and the 2027 global AI summit.

Join #GenevaLovesData this summer

Data ecosystems support Swiss competitiveness

Building on its reputation for reliability and stability, Switzerland can play a leading role in trustworthy data, responsible AI and science diplomacy. Sustaining this is a strategic opportunity: continued investment in data ecosystems will be key to preserving Switzerland’s competitiveness, stability and influence.

– Originally published in the SIB Profile 2026