Amman: The Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF) and the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD) have inaugurated a joint regional hub in Amman to serve the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), marking the first collaborative initiative of its kind between the two Geneva-based organizations.
According to Jordan News Agency, the regional hub, named "The Geneva Centres in Amman," was launched in partnership with Jordan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates and with the support of the Embassy of Switzerland in Jordan. The inauguration event saw participation from representatives of Jordanian government institutions, diplomatic missions, international organizations, donor countries, civil society organizations, and the media.
The purpose of the new office is to bolster the regional presence of both organizations and foster collaboration in the fields of security sector governance and humanitarian demining. It aims to enhance engagement with governments, regional partners, local communities, United Nations agencies, and other international entities.
Jordan's selection as the host for the regional hub is attributed to its role as a regional center for dialogue, cooperation, and peace, as well as its stable environment, strategic location, and infrastructure conducive to regional engagement. This decision also underscores the longstanding partnership between Jordan and Switzerland and their mutual commitment to advancing peace, security, and sustainable development.
Amin Awad, President of DCAF's Foundation Council, emphasized that the initiative contributes significantly to promoting peace, security, and safer communities throughout the region. He underscored that sustainable peace is achievable only through robust partnerships, mutual trust, and ongoing engagement with regional stakeholders.
Barbara Haering, President of the GICHD Foundation Council, stated that the establishment of the hub will bring Geneva-based expertise closer to the region. This move will enable both organizations to align their programs with regional priorities and evolving needs, enhancing their impact on beneficiary communities.
Swiss Ambassador to Jordan Emilija Georgieva highlighted that the opening of "The Geneva Centres in Amman" affirms Jordan's status as a trusted regional hub for dialogue, cooperation, and expertise. She expressed Switzerland's pride in supporting the joint initiative, viewing it as an extension of the country's enduring commitment to peace, security, and humanitarian action in the Middle East and North Africa.
GICHD Director Ambassador Tobias Privitelli remarked that the new office will assist national institutions in developing the necessary systems, strategies, and partnerships to address explosive ordnance contamination, protect communities, and achieve sustainable outcomes in humanitarian demining.
DCAF Director Ambassador Nathalie Chuard noted that the organization's presence in Amman will enhance direct engagement with regional partners and support the development of more effective and sustainable approaches to security sector governance in response to evolving regional challenges.
Founded by the Swiss Government over 25 years ago, DCAF and the GICHD operate as independent organizations headquartered in Geneva. Through their shared regional office in Amman, they aim to improve coordination, operational responsiveness, and regional cooperation in support of peacebuilding, security, and humanitarian action.