How Switzerland is Building A Global Stage for High-Profile Events

A Year of Spectacles

Switzerland’s 2025 calendar is packed with noteworthy events, including the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel this coming May and the UEFA Women’s Euro (WEURO) across multiple Swiss cities in July. These events are more than just entertainment or sports; they are opportunities for Switzerland to showcase its multifaceted appeal to the world, underlining the country’s readiness to welcome everything from international congresses to global entertainment spectacles.

The Eurovision Song Contest, known for its massive viewership and cultural significance, will provide Basel with a platform to demonstrate its modern venues and seamless organization. With over 160 million viewers tuning in globally each year, Eurovision is not just an entertainment event—it is a cultural phenomenon that unites audiences across borders.

“Switzerland is an incredibly well-oiled machine when it comes to organising international events, and Eurovision will put those strengths on full display,” said a spokesperson from the European Broadcasting Union.

Similarly, the WEURO, hosted from Bern to Geneva, from Lucerne to Zurich and beyond, will highlight the country’s capacity to handle large-scale, multi-location events. With teams and fans converging from across Europe, this championship is not just about football but also about showcasing Switzerland’s connectivity, efficient public transport, and hospitality.

Building Momentum

Beyond Eurovision and WEURO, Switzerland’s hosting prowess extends into elite sports. Events like the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships and the Laax Open, a Freestyle World Cup, emphasize the country’s outdoor and winter sports heritage. These events not only attract global athletes and fans but also reaffirm Switzerland’s position as a hub for sports innovation, from its alpine resorts to state-of-the-art arenas.

Such events are bolstered by Switzerland’s strategic investment in infrastructure. For example, the Hallenstadion in Zurich has hosted everything from international concerts and sports tournaments to medical congresses, showcasing its versatility. Similarly, Lausanne’s Swisstech is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities, attracting thousands of delegates annually. These efforts reflect a deep understanding of the evolving demands of global events, where venues must be adaptable to host everything from dynamic sports to major cultural events.

A Conference Hub

But Switzerland’s appeal goes beyond entertainment and sports, as demonstrated by its robust schedule of upcoming international congresses. In 2025, the country will host an array of conferences, including the 48^th IHF World Hospital Congress, WordCamp Europe, DIA Europe, the XXIII International Congress of Analytical Psychology, and the CIRED Conference on Electricity Distribution. These events highlight the diversity of industries that Switzerland hosts—from healthcare and technology to engineering and psychology— and how the country leverages its knowledge-based economy to be even more attractive.

Moreover, these events inspire local innovation. By hosting technologically advanced congresses such as the 30^th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics, Switzerland fosters a culture of knowledge exchange and cross-industry collaboration. This, in turn, reinforces the country’s image as a leader in science, technology, and education.

Additional factors

One factor that makes Switzerland particularly enticing to conference organisers is of course its geographical centrality and excellent accessibility. With major cities like Zurich, Geneva, Basel and Bern well-connected by international airports and high-speed rail, attendees can travel efficiently within the country. New this year is the SBB Congress Ticket for event planners hosting congresses with 300 or more delegates. This special fare allows participants to travel seamlessly from the Swiss border or airport to their event location and back.

Moreover, Switzerland’s reputation for political stability and safety provides an added layer of reassurance for European and global associations in these times of geopolitical turbulences. In an era where security and predictability are paramount, the country stands out as a beacon of reliability.

Leveraging Local Expertise & Sustainability

Switzerland’s success in hosting events is rooted in its collaborative spirit and local expertise. Cities like Bern are leveraging events like WEURO not only to attract international attention but also to engage local communities and institutions. For instance, the Belgian team’s match in the region of Bern on July 7 offers a unique opportunity to invite associations to attend, fostering connections between local stakeholders and international participants.

This collaborative approach extends to the planning of pre- and post-event tours, which allow visitors to explore Switzerland’s cultural and natural riches while discovering its congress infrastructure. Whether it’s a historical tour in Bern or a visit to cutting-edge facilities in Zurich, these experiences are sure to leave a lasting impression on delegates.

The country’s commitment to sustainability further enhances its appeal, as more event organisers prioritise environmentally conscious practices. Venues across Switzerland incorporate green technologies, such as the energy-efficient design of the Palexpo in Geneva, which has installed extensive solar panels, and the Kongresshaus Zurich, which uses innovative systems to minimize energy consumption.

Additionally, public transport options like Switzerland’s extensive train network further reduce the carbon footprint of large gatherings. According to the Global Destination Sustainability Index, Swiss cities consistently rank among the most eco-friendly event destinations in the world. “Sustainability is no longer a ‘nice to have’—it is a necessity,” noted a report from the Geneva Tourism Board.

As it prepares for an exciting year ahead, Switzerland is proving once again that it is more than just a host—it is a global stage where industries, cultures, and communities converge to create something truly remarkable.

More info on Switzerland as a convention destination: myriam.winnepenninckx@switzerland.com / Switzerland.com/meetings