Mandat International: a Delegates’ centre for all the International Conference participants
YVONNE SCHNEITER
Each year up to 200,000 delegates and experts attend international conferences in Geneva. That is more than the population of the canton of Graubünden or more than some 12 other Swiss cantons.
These delegates are essential to the conferences and the work of the international organizations present in Geneva. But attending a conference is not always an easy task. That is why Mandat International is opening a Delegates’ centre which will be available to welcome, inform and support all international conference participants.
Located at “La Pastorale”, 106 route de Ferney, close to the Hotel Intercontinental, this new centre is at a short walking distance from most international organizations. By taking care of the visiting experts and delegates, it complements the services offered by the Geneva Welcome Centre dedicated to the international community living in Geneva.
The Delegates’ Centre offers various services:
Welcome, orientation and information:
A multilingual team is present every working day from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. to welcome the visitors and facilitate their stay in Geneva with practical information and orientation: on-going conferences, accommodation, accreditation
procedures, problems solving, etc. It will contribute to share and disseminate information, including through a large wall displaying documents on on-going conferences. This desk will also ease the contacts and networking with the numerous organizations present in the Geneva region, thanks to a large database on organizations involved in the international cooperation.
The Delegates’ Centre can also provide an on-site welcome desk for large conferences, like the one which is provided at the UN Human Rights Council sessions.
Work infrastructure:
In order to support the visitors who cannot benefit from a permanent office in Geneva, a work infrastructure is put at their disposal, including a meeting room, WiFi connection and 15 multilingual brand new PC work stations. It enables them to prepare their statements and to hold meetings. It offers a place to meet and discuss with other delegates, or to simply enjoy a cup of coffee.
