NEXPO strengthens the exchange of information and collaboration between its participants. At several workshops and in many different constellations, the 10 NEXPO cities discussed their motivations, challenges and visions, developed thematic areas and already began to test out specific project paths. In this way, NEXPO offers food for thought and gets the participants talking about the fundamental question underlying NEXPO: how people live together in Switzerland in the 21st century.

The following quotes stem from the statements of the initial cities on the end of the launch phase in September 2020. They will serve as a basis for further work:

“What do we associate with the “city of opportunity”, Zurich? What can Zurich do to prove that you don’t have to go far to find happiness – that happiness is just around the corner? (...) A NEXPO pilot project for the City of Zurich could open up new perspectives on climate issues and create innovative approaches to proactively protecting the environment. And NEXPO could be the invitation to work together to bring about social innovation.”

„Geneva has always been a welcoming city, open to trade, the exchange of ideas, negotiation and the defense of human rights. (…) A frontier city, Geneva cultivates its global influence by approaching cities with the same vision and sharing common issues. A goal that she intends to pursue nationally as part of NEXPO.“

“Basel is a gateway to Europe and Switzerland. As such, the City of Basel sees the potential of thinking beyond cantonal and national borders and promoting mutual understanding. (...) As an international research and innovation hub, Basel places a particular NEXPO emphasis on the topic of digitalisation.”

“As the capital city of Switzerland, the City of Bern is especially dedicated to direct democracy – the essence of Switzerland. (...) This is also the path NEXPO is taking. NEXPO is participative and decentralised, and works in the same way that Switzerland does. At its heart is the City of Bern, whose NEXPO focus is our political system.”

“Lausanne is the home of the Olympics. Sport is a tremendous conduit for change: be it in terms of education, health, integration or gender equality. (...) By sharing our city, we are helping to integrate and reserve a special place for all generations. This is just one of the fascinating themes to be shared with the Swiss population and the other NEXPO partner cities.”

“Looking at our living space reveals how we coexist as a society. Winterthur is perceived as an artificial “major city ecosystem” kept alive by the people who live there. (...) As part of a specific NEXPO pilot project, our aim is to stimulate discussions around the idea of a “playing field” as a laboratory of the future focused on the interplay between urban density and living space.”

“Lucerne was, is and remains both a place to call home and a place you long to be – a city of coming and going. (...) Lucerne’s thematic area is rolled out and designed around this notion. The future-thinking project, with the working title ‘NEXPO Transit’, is focused on exploring and working on this thematic area.”

“In the context of NEXPO, the City of St. Gallen sees itself as the representative of the entire region of eastern Switzerland. It can contribute its experience with large-scale events and strengthen its relations with other municipalities, cities and cantons. (...) Knowledge is a topic that has long been present in St. Gallen, whose Abbey Library is one of the oldest libraries in the world, after all.”

“A network like NEXPO enables Lugano to plan, discuss and implement ideas and projects that are key to its future development even more effectively. (...) Quality of life and sustainability are becoming increasingly important issues with the growth of urbanisation. The smart use of modern technology makes it possible today to develop digital and physical solutions for the future.”

“Biel/Bienne stands for respect and actively advocating for diversity in every aspect, as well as for the courage to follow unconventional paths when it comes to preserving or re-establishing social justice and ecological balance for current and future generations. Biel/Bienne wants its spirit – its innovative streak, cosmopolitan attitude and, in the best sense of the word, disruptiveness at times – to help shape NEXPO and our country.”