GENEVA — Protesters clashed with police in Geneva on Sunday as thousands demonstrated against the G7 summit scheduled to begin on Monday in nearby Evian-les-Bains, France, authorities said.
Swiss police deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse groups after some demonstrators smashed windows, set a vehicle on fire and engaged in other acts of property damage, according to officials and media reports. The protests occurred ahead of the summit of leaders from the Group of Seven wealthy nations.
Geneva authorities had anticipated large demonstrations, with estimates of up to 50,000 participants for related events. The main protest on Sunday drew thousands, including environmentalists, feminists and pro-Palestinian groups, Swiss media and international outlets reported. A smaller number of more militant activists, described by some sources as around several hundred, were involved in the clashes.
"Police used tear gas and water cannons after protesters threw stones and caused damage," a Geneva police spokesman said, according to reports from the scene. Details on the exact number of arrests remained unclear immediately after the events, though local media reported around 20 detentions in connection with earlier actions.
No serious injuries were reported among protesters or police in the initial accounts. Swiss authorities had increased security measures significantly in the Lake Geneva region, deploying thousands of officers and coordinating with French forces due to the summit's proximity.
The G7 summit, hosted by France in Evian-les-Bains from June 15 to 17, is expected to address global issues including international conflicts and economic matters. Delegations are anticipated to transit through Geneva Airport, prompting border restrictions and traffic disruptions in the area.
Organizers of the "No G7" protests have cited concerns over inequality, climate policy and geopolitical issues. Swiss officials urged residents to avoid downtown Geneva and consider remote work during the period. Businesses in parts of the city boarded up windows in anticipation of potential unrest.
The events recalled protests during a previous G8 summit in Evian in 2003, when demonstrations in Geneva led to property damage. Authorities said they had prepared extensively this time with additional personnel and temporary measures.
As of Monday morning, the situation in Geneva had calmed following the overnight clashes, though security remained heightened. The G7 leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, were set to convene across the border as planned. Further updates on any additional protests or summit proceedings were expected throughout the week.
