Bürgenstock Resort, a 5-star mountain resort perched atop Lake Lucerne, took centre stage in global diplomacy as the host of the Summit on Peace in Ukraine from 15th – 16th June 2024. As the largest political event in Swiss history, the resort welcomed more than 1,500 individuals – including 57 heads of state, 32 ministerial-level representatives, and delegations from 93 countries, alongside 500 journalists who provided comprehensive media coverage. The summit culminated in the signing of the Bürgenstock Communiqué, a landmark agreement celebrated as a foundation for future peace and international cooperation.

Reflecting on the extraordinary challenges of hosting such a high-profile event condensed into two intensive days of diplomacy, Chris Franzen, Managing Director of Bürgenstock Resort, remarked: “Usually for an event like this, you’d have at least a year. But this is the diaries of global leaders, and of course, there are political events. So they had to do it just after the G7 Summit in June.” His insight highlighted the delicate balance of meticulous planning and adaptive problem-solving required to accommodate the schedules of global leaders and ensure the summit’s success.
Franzen’s leadership was a decisive factor in the seamless execution of the summit. With a remarkable career spanning over two decades, including senior roles at top-tier hospitality brands, he has developed an exceptional ability to manage high-pressure events. Under his guidance, the resort team demonstrated extraordinary dedication and precision, transforming Bürgenstock into a secure and welcoming environment befitting world leaders. Despite the narrow preparation window of just a few months, the resort’s ability to meet the logistical, security, and diplomatic demands of such an event showcased not only its world-class facilities but also its commitment to excellence.
The summit’s success also underscored the resort’s adaptability, as its staff worked tirelessly to accommodate the needs of delegates and journalists while maintaining the highest standards of discretion and service. From coordinating complex arrival protocols to ensuring flawless meeting arrangements, Bürgenstock Resort proved itself an exemplary venue for hosting pivotal moments in international diplomacy.