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, roundtables and workshops, 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 cooperation.
3. Why is the conference organized?
The second edition of the GC3B is organized to elevate cyber capacity building discussions onto the global governance and development agendas. The conference aims to drive actions in line with the Accra Call, the outcome document of the GC3B 2023 which consists of a set of actions that promote cyber capacity building and support broader sustainable development goals.
Participants will convene to coordinate strategies, share best practices and resources to support countries in strengthening their digital foundations and pursue the objectives of the Accra Call through their own internal processes and mandates. The GC3B will also provide a venue for taking stock of the Accra Call pledges and (through its subsequent editions) will periodically bring stakeholders together to assess progress and set the path forward.
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?
In an increasingly connected world that relies heavily on technology, and where cyber threats continue to expand in both number and complexity, the need for robust cyber capacity that supports broader sustainable development goals has never been greater. International collaboration and collective investments in resources, knowledge and skills are key to build free, resilient and sustainable digital societies across the continents.
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?
By bringing together stakeholders from government, industry, civil society and academia, the GC3B aims to:
- Increase awareness and expand knowledge of existing good practices, tools, methods, and lessons for increased cyber resilient development.
- Generate new insights and out-of-the-box thinking for cyber capacity building in ways that complement and challenge traditional approaches.
- Bring together communities and stakeholders engaged in cyber capacity building and development cooperation to bridge siloed approaches, accelerate expertise-sharing, and foster stronger cooperation locally, regionally and globally.
- Drive collective action on existing commitments, on existing or new commitments, solutions, and plans that strengthen cyber resilience.
The GC3B 2025 aims to drive actions in line with the Accra Call, the outcome document of the GC3B 2023 which consists of a set of actions that promote cyber capacity building and support broader sustainable development goals.
Participants will convene to coordinate strategies, share best practices and resources to support countries in strengthening their digital foundations and pursue the objectives of the Accra Call through their own internal processes and
mandates. The GC3B will also provide a venue for taking stock of the Accra Call pledges and (through its subsequent editions) will periodically bring stakeholders together to assess progress and set the path forward.
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?
The 2025 program is organized into three pillars – Rethink, Evolve, and Anticipate – aimed at indicating future solutions and approaches for strengthening cyber capacity building through international multistakeholder cooperation.
The program will shortly be published on the GC3B website.
11. 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.