QUNO Geneva recently hosted its annual Quaker UN Summer School (QUNSS) from July 1 to 12, 2024, organized around the theme "The Puzzle of International Geneva: Working Together for a Just, Equitable, and Peaceful Future for All." Through this theme, the programme explored how States, UN organizations, international groups, civil society, and grassroots organizations engage with one another and the mechanisms in Geneva. The participants learned where QUNO fits in the puzzle, using our dialogue and a commitment to the long term to advocate for peace, justice, and sustainability.   

This year’s summer school welcomed 21 participants aged 19 to 27 from Cambodia, Cyprus, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Germany, Hungary, The Gambia, New Zealand, Uganda, the United Kingdom, and the United States.  

QUNSS introduced participants to QUNO’s work, the United Nations system, and the broader international Geneva ecosystem. The two weeks were filled with panels, interactive activities such as negotiation role-plays, and visits to key international organizations, including the International Committee of the Red Cross museum and the United Nations in Geneva. Participants also had the opportunity to sit in on the Expert Mechanism for the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, a subsidiary body of the Human Rights Council that provides research, expertise and best practices to help countries realize the rights of Indigenous peoples. These activities helped participants gain a deeper understanding of multilateralism and how different stakeholders work towards a common goal.   

Each of QUNO's four programmes—Human Rights and Refugees, Human Impacts of Climate Change, Sustainable and Just Economic Systems, and Peace and Disarmament—had a dedicated day. During these days, participants delved into how QUNO Geneva upholds the dignity of every person and the Quaker values and testimonies in our programmatic work. They visited the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the World Meteorological Organization to meet with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Discussions with QUNO staff and close colleagues on meaningful migrant participation and arms control highlighted how QUNO uses our voice to advocate for a more peaceful, just and sustainable world.  

On the weekend, participants had time to explore Geneva, touring the Old Town, enjoying the view of the city from the top of St. Peter’s Cathedral, and eating lunch by the lake at Bains des Pâquis.   

Towards the end of the programme, participants reflected on the future with a panel with young professionals, interactive dialogues with high-level and experienced guests, and a session on future challenges, including the role of AI. The summer school concluded with reflections on their experiences, a Q&A session with QUNO staff, and a closing barbecue. Participants left with new knowledge, memories, and connections. QUNO Geneva expresses our best wishes to the participants as they continue to discover where they fit within the puzzle of international Geneva.