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Media advisory

OSCE Chairpersonship to host conference on anticipating technologies in Geneva

Date:
Place:
VIENNA/BERN
Source:
OSCE Chairpersonship

VIENNA/BERN, 27 April 2026 – The Swiss Chairpersonship of the OSCE will host a high-level conference on “Anticipating technologies – for a safe and humane future” on 7-8 May in Geneva. 

From water scarcity to artificial intelligence: will technology help prevent conflicts – or fuel them? This question will drive discussions in Geneva, where policymakers, scientists and tech experts will explore how emerging technologies – from AI to quantum computing – are transforming security and co-operation across the OSCE region, highlighting the importance of anticipation.

The conference aims to promote a human-centred and forward-looking approach, bridging science and diplomacy to address both opportunities and risks. The event seeks to foster dialogue and joint action to ensure that technological innovation strengthens trust, security and co-operation rather than division. For this meeting, Switzerland is leveraging the unique ecosystem of Geneva – a global hub where science, diplomacy and multilateral co-operation intersect.

The first day of the Conference, to be held at the CERN Science Gateway, will be open to media representatives, who will also have the opportunity to take part in a guided visit of CERN.  

Media representatives are required to obtain accreditation in advance. Interested journalists are invited to register no later than Monday, 4 May at 12:00 (CET) via the following link

Further information about the Conference is available here. The Media Corner provides practical information on the venue, programme, accreditation, photos and useful links. 

Indicative ProgrammeThursday, 7 May 2026

09:00-09:45

Official opening 

  • Ignazio Cassis, Chairman-in-Office, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
  • Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, Secretary General of the OSCE
  • Ursula Bassler, Director for Stakeholder Relations at CERN
  • Khaled El-Enany, Director-General of UNESCO
09:45-11:00Anticipating technology and its implications for peace and security – the example of quantum computing 
11:30-12:45Anticipating water and energy security in the digital age
13:30-15:00Tour of CERN
15:15-16:30Artificial intelligence and conflict prevention
16:45-17:15Closing session 

The second day of the conference, which will be held at the ICRC, is not open to the press.

Links 


Contacts

Press Office Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, Bern

Elisa Raggi

Head of Communications, Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the OSCE

Task Force for the Swiss OSCE Chairpersonship