FAQs
1. What does GC3B stand for?
G = Global
C3 = Conference on Cyber Capacity
B = Building
2. What is the GC3B?
The GC3B is the Global Conference on Cyber Capacity Building, scheduled for 14-15 May 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. Hosted by the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs and supported by the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise, the conference aims to elevate cyber capacity building discussions to the global governance and development agenda’s. Robust cyber capacity is crucial, since our increasingly connected world relies heavily on technology, and cyber threats expand both in number and complexity. International collaboration and collective investments in resources, knowledge and skills are key to ensure a free, open and resilient digital future where no country is left behind in their digital transition.
The GC3B gathers high-level policy makers, leading experts on cyber security and capacity building, and the international development community to work on common goals and solutions, which is a key enabler for sustainable development, economic growth, and social progress.
With inspiring keynotes, engaging panel talks, strategic roundtables, private meetings and a lively exhibition space, the GC3B is where policymakers, international communities and industries come together to mobilize resources for cyber capacity building, and provide actional insights for platforms that enhance international process such as the UN OEWG and Global Digital Compact.
3. Why is the conference organized?
To raise awareness of the importance that every nation has the expertise, knowledge and skills to invest in their digital future, and to encourage countries to work together on developing these capabilities to ensure a free, open and secure digital world. As the highlight of the GC3B, participants will witness the announcement of the Accra Call: a global framework for concrete actions that support countries in strengthening their cyber resilience.
4. What is cyber capacity building?
Cyber capacity building is about having the resources, knowledge and skills that countries need to invest in their digital economy. Nations should work together and support each other with these capabilities so that no country is left behind in their digital evolution.
5. Why this conference, why now?
The digital world touches every aspect of our lives. It enables us to connect, work, learn and travel, and plays an important role in safeguarding life essentials such as food, water, and healthcare. Along with huge opportunities, it also comes with digital risks. We need to be aware of those risks. All of us. Governments. Businesses. Academia. Society at large. To ensure a free, open, and secure digital world, every country should have the resources, knowledge, and skills they need to invest in their digital future. Nations should work together and support each other with these capabilities, so that no country is left behind in their digital evolution. After all, a chain is only as strong as the weakest link. The GC3B is organized to raise awareness of this issue and to encourage countries to work together on developing these capabilities to ensure a free, open and secure digital world.
6. What does the conference hope to achieve?
The GC3B is anticipated to achieve three key outcomes
- The Accra Call: a global framework for concrete actions that support countries in strengthening their cyber resilience.
- An improved global architecture of coordination and cooperation mechanisms for cyber capacity building by leveraging existing structures and strengthening global, regional, multi-stakeholder, and public/private cooperation initiatives.
- Expanding the pool of resources available for equitable, sustainable, and demand-driven cyber resilience for development through the mobilization of different sources of financing from international development, the private sector, and philanthropy.
7. Who will attend the conference?
The GC3B brings together high-level leaders, experts on cyber security and capacity building, and the international development community from around the world.
This includes decision makers and experts from governments, the private sector, international organizations, civil society and academia.
8. Can anyone attend the conference?
The conference is by invitation only, with limited capacity. Interested organizations or individuals who want to be on the waiting list can leave their contact details and we will get in touch with them about the possibilities (latest mid-March 2025).
9. What is the attendance fee?
There is no fee required to attend the conference.
10. What does the program of the conference look like?
Along with plenary sessions, for all attendees to join, the program includes several sessions that can be participated, organized per pillar:
- Making international development cyber resilient
- Collaborating to secure the digital ecosystem
- Cyber capacity building for stability and security
- Operationalizing solutions
The program can be found on the GC3B website.
11. Should you register for these sessions beforehand?
When participants have registered for the conference, they are asked to indicate their interest in the sessions.
12. Do I require a visa to access Switzerland?
Depending on your country of residence, a visa for Switzerland may be required. When you register for your attendance, you will immediately receive a confirmation email, including details on how to apply for a visa and who to contact if you need support with your visa application.