
Thousands protest against G7 summit in Geneva
Thousands protest against G7 summit in Geneva
- Thousands of protesters gathered in Geneva to oppose the G7 summit, expressing concerns over various global issues.
- Swiss and French authorities implemented extensive security measures, including closing border crossings and deploying thousands of police.
- The protests reflect a growing discontent with the policies of G7 leaders, particularly regarding climate change and imperialism.
Story
In Geneva, Switzerland, thousands of demonstrators gathered to express their discontent with the G7 summit, which is set to take place in nearby Evian-les-Bains, France. The protests, organized by a coalition of over 60 associations, unions, and left-wing groups, aimed to highlight various issues including climate change, imperialism, and the leadership of President Donald Trump. Authorities in both Switzerland and France implemented extensive security measures, deploying thousands of police officers and restricting border crossings to manage the anticipated unrest. Businesses in Geneva boarded up their storefronts in preparation for potential violence, recalling similar protests from the past. The protests began days before the summit, with a significant turnout expected on Sunday, June 14, 2026. Activists, including environmentalists and feminists, gathered in a lakeside park to march across the city, carrying signs and chanting slogans against the G7 leaders. Among the demonstrators were groups of youths wearing black hoodies and masks, as well as individuals displaying banners that read anti-G7 and pro-Palestinian messages. The atmosphere was charged with frustration over the policies of the G7 leaders, particularly Trump's stance on various global issues. As the summit approached, Swiss and French authorities took drastic measures to ensure security, including the closure of 27 border crossings and the deployment of military helicopters and police boats. The heightened security was a response to fears of violence, reminiscent of the 2003 G8 summit in Evian, where protests turned destructive. The NoG7 coalition, which organized the demonstrations, expressed deep concerns about the impact of G7 policies on global peace and the environment, emphasizing the need for a collective voice against what they perceive as harmful leadership. The G7 summit, which includes leaders from the world's largest developed economies, is a focal point for activists who believe that the policies discussed at such gatherings often neglect the needs of ordinary people and the planet. The protests in Geneva reflect a growing discontent with the status quo and a call for more equitable and sustainable policies. As the world watches, the events in Geneva serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle between grassroots movements and elite political gatherings.