Switzerland: International Studies and Multilateral Diplomacy

Examine the strategies and responses of intergovernmental, supranational, and regional organizations to current challenges in the international system.

Meeting with the International Labor Organization in Geneva

While the city retains much of its French heritage and Swiss culture, Geneva’s population is truly international, with a unique microculture of social and political organizations.

From its base in Geneva, this program provides a thorough background in international studies, using an experiential, case study approach. The program addresses the most contemporary international issues, with classroom seminars supplemented by lectures and briefings at international and nongovernmental organizations, including United Nations agencies, the Red Cross, and platforms of the World Trade Organization.

Interactive research studies and field excursions in Switzerland, France, and Belgium deepen students' understanding of the challenges faced by organizations that foster multilateral diplomacy, peace building, human rights, environmental accountability, international trade, and global cooperation.

Alumna Madelyn Smith describes her experience on the SIT Study Abroad Switzerland program.

Congratulations to SIT Switzerland alum Christopher Longman!

Christopher’s essay on private military contractors and humanitarian missions—written during his semester with SIT—was a cover story on the student academic journal, The Globe, at the Elliott School of International Affairs, at George Washington University.

Read Chistopher’s essay here: “For Better or For Worse: The Marriage of Private Military Contractors to United Nations Humanitarian Support Missions”

Browse this program's Independent Study Projects/Undergraduate Research

Dr. Alexandre Lambert, academic director for this program, publishes book on international security governance:
Dr. Lambert recently published Democratic Civilian Control of Armed Forces in the Post-Cold War Era. This book is part of his active effort to impact international security governance and post-conflict peace-building policymaking. Read more about Dr. Lambert’s new book.

Credits: 16

Duration: 15 weeks

Program Base: Geneva

Language Study: French

Prerequisites: Coursework in international studies, political science, or prelaw Read more...