FES Geneva: about us

The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) office in Geneva is part of the overall program “Dialogue on Globalization” since 2002. It observes and assists the work of the World Trade Organization (WTO), different UN-Organizations (International Labour Organization ILO, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights OHCHR, United Nations Conference on Trade and Development UNCTAD) and the work of the United Nations Human Rights Council UNHRC. It was established in 1994 as, at the time, a media project assisting countries of the Global South in developing their media.

FES Geneva works closely together with partners of the Geneva based international organizations, representatives of governments and members of the diplomatic missions, parliaments, parties, NGOs, trade unions, journalists and academic institutions. The office offers conferences, seminars, workshops and dialog sessions, training and information programs with international participation (mainly from developing countries), studies, consultancy reports and publications. The current focus of our work lies in three main areas: we accompany the work of the newly established Human Rights Council – we publish information on its structural and operational setup and provide platforms for the multilateral debate, e.g. on the Right to Development. Secondly, we work closely with the ILO and the International Trade Union movement by supporting the application of the Core Labour Standards worldwide. Last not least, we analyze the Trade and Development aspects of the Doha Round at the WTO and we contribute to Capacity Building of Developing Countries with regard to trade negotiations.

The FES office in Geneva is located in close proximity to the Palais des Nations and the WTO building. The office has six permanent staff members and provides internships for students specializing in international affairs, economic and human rights policy.

For further information on the work of FES Geneva, please do not hesitate to contact us.