Peaceful Rally Turns Chaotic
An anti-G7 protest in Geneva began with a festive atmosphere on Sunday before turning violent as masked demonstrators clashed with police, damaged property and forced officers to use tear gas. The march was organized by the No-G7 coalition ahead of the Group of Seven summit in nearby Évian-les-Bains, France. Geneva police estimated that about 20,000 people joined the demonstration, while noting that most participants remained peaceful during the event.
Black Bloc Group Joins March
The protest started in a park overlooking Lake Geneva, where demonstrators gathered with banners, music and anti-G7 slogans before marching through the northern part of the city. Bands played brass music and Latin rhythms as participants chanted and danced. The mood shifted after hundreds of masked Black Bloc demonstrators dressed in black joined the route. Police later said around 600 such activists were present, creating a more confrontational atmosphere as the march moved past boarded-up businesses and public buildings.
Property Damage And Tear Gas
Violence escalated when a Tesla car was set on fire and some demonstrators threw flares, firecrackers and debris toward riot police. Several buildings were damaged along the route, including offices and public facilities, while shopfronts and street infrastructure were sprayed with graffiti or smashed. Police responded with tear gas and water cannons in an effort to disperse the most aggressive groups, sending some protesters into side streets and nearby private areas. Authorities reported several arrests and said no injuries had been confirmed.
G7 Security Under Pressure
The unrest highlighted the security challenges surrounding the G7 summit, where leaders are expected to discuss major global issues including war, trade, climate, inequality and economic policy. Swiss and French authorities had already tightened security, restricted movement and reinforced border controls to prevent disruption near the summit venue. While the No-G7 coalition framed the protest as a stand for freedom and human rights, the damage in Geneva shifted attention to the balance between public protest, police response and the protection of public property.
