Geneva’s charm has international appeal
With 200,000 inhabitants, Switzerland’s second most populous city, Geneva, offers a unique combination of international cultures and different nationalities, in a beautiful natural and architectural setting. Situated in the south-west of Switzerland and famous for its lake, mountains and fountain, Geneva is one of the most spectacular and picturesque spots on the European continent. Geneva is also known for its sophisticated neighbourhoods, its old town, cultural attractions and historic monuments. As well as its aesthetic appeal, the surrounding Alpine setting is ideal for a wide range of activities, including skiing, mountaineering and hiking.
A city of many nationalities.
Considered to be one of the country’s most cosmopolitan cities, Geneva’s reputation as an international hub has had a lasting impact on its culture today. Today, almost 40% of the population comprises migrants and their descendants. The presence of so many foreign communities is reflected in the city’s linguistic and cultural diversity, and its unique blend of French, German, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish influences.
In fact, according to the local Statistics Office, almost three-quarters of dual nationals in Geneva are Europeans (77%), followed by Americans (8%) and Africans (7%).
Geneva has four national languages: French, Italian, English and German, which adds to the diversity of the city’s atmosphere. At 38.1%, Geneva is the Swiss city with the largest proportion of foreign nationals, way ahead of Bâle, Vaud, Zurich or even Berne.
A diplomatic role and an international vision
As well as its aesthetic appeal and comfortable lifestyle, Geneva owes its influence to its geographical location, its proximity to foreign countries and, above all, its role as a major economic and diplomatic hub. It is home to many international organisations, including the European headquarters of the United Nations, the World Trade Organisation (WTO), the World Health Organisation (WHO), the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the International Committee of the Red Cross and 431 NGOs. These organisations, essential to the good conduct of the world, contribute enormously to the city’s cultural diversity.
In fact, they attract many workers from across the globe. They may be short or long-term visitors or expatriates.
Financial appeal in its own right.
Geneva therefore attracts diplomats and financiers. In addition to its global and cultural influence, Geneva is renowned as the world’s leading centre for finance and business. Thanks to a low-tax system, dependable banks and a dynamic service sector, its economy is now booming.
Geneva, the crossroads of knowledge and success
Geneva is home to CERN, the world’s leading centre for particle physics and to the ESA, the intergovernmental space agency coordinating
space projects carried out jointly by 22 European countries. These two institutions make a major contribution to Geneva’s international influence in terms of innovation and opportunities.
In addition to these two international giants, Geneva is a city brimming with expertise and innovation. Despite having the highest tax burden in Switzerland, the city has a low unemployment rate and a large number of high-performance companies and organisations that focus on innovative, cutting-edge projects.
Geneva has presence in every sense
From its natural beauty to its diverse, multicultural atmosphere and heritage, Geneva is one of the world’s most attractive cities, and one of the few destinations that offers everyone the opportunity to build a career, succeed and flourish while immersing themselves in different cultures. Few places are able to compete with such potential.
Nevertheless, Geneva is starting to extend its qualities to other cities, notably Zurich where banks are increasingly installing themselves for business clients and projects. That may be explained by Zurich’s strategic location close to Germany and Austria.
So, could Zurich rival Geneva for excellence?