The 8th GCSP Alumni Networking Night (GANN) 2024 united the dynamic GCSP Alumni & Community across 17 countries, creating a space for meaningful engagement and connections. Our members from Europe to Africa, Asia, and the Middle East gathered to share insights, reflect on pressing security challenges and strengthen bonds within the network.

The GANN is the signature event of the GCSP Alumni & Community Office, designed to unite our members in their hometowns. Hosted by alumni hubs and Swiss representations abroad, it serves as tan annual cornerstone for networking and reconnection.

Event Locations & Dates:

The 2024 edition took place in multiple cities worldwide, including:

• 28 October – Berlin
• 6 November – Islamabad
• 7 November – Amman, Baghdad, Belgrade, Brussels, Cairo, Islamabad, Paris, Tbilissi, Tirana, Vienna
• 8 November – New Delhi
• 14 November – Chisinau, Geneva
• 3 December – Ankara
• 5 December – Afghanistan (Hybrid from Geneva)

This year’s GANN facilitated valuable contacts to newly appointed Swiss Ambassadors and Defence Attachés in Belgrade, Brussels, Islamabad, New Delhi, and Ankara, while also strengthening ties with Swiss representatives in Tirana and Chisinau. The alumni network offers a unique wealth of expertise.

In his welcoming speech in Geneva, Ambassador Thomas Greminger, Executive Director of the GCSP, emphasised the importance of these global connections, noting that the GCSP Alumni Community plays a pivotal role in addressing the complex challenges we face today:

“This evening is more than a celebration; it is an opportunity to strengthen the connections that will lead to tomorrow’s breakthroughs. As part of the GCSP, we are not just participants in a network; we are architects of a better, safer world.” 

The GCSP Alumni & Community Office is deeply grateful to the GCSP Alumni Hubs, Alumni Ambassadors, and Swiss Embassies for their generous contributions in hosting the local events. We also extend a big thank you to our diverse and engaged alumni who made this event a success.