In the afternoon, groups of masked protesters clashed with police, throwing bottles, stones, fireworks, and other projectiles. Police responded with tear gas and water cannons to contain the violence. A vehicle was set on fire near the march route, and several buildings were reportedly damaged. As the unrest spread to certain parts of the city, authorities ordered the crowd to disperse. These incidents marked a break with the beginning of the demonstration, which had been peaceful despite the intense heat. The rally brought together environmental activists, feminist organizations, supporters of the Palestinian cause, and members of the anti-globalization movement to denounce G7 policies and demand further social and environmental reforms. According to Geneva police, nearly 20,000 people participated in the demonstration, one of the largest organized in Switzerland in recent years. The participants gathered near several international institutions, including the United Nations headquarters, holding signs critical of the G7 leaders and calling for political change. These tensions come as Switzerland and France have deployed significant security measures ahead of the G7 summit, scheduled for June 15 in Évian. Over three days, the heads of state and government are expected to discuss, among other things, the war in Ukraine, the crises in the Middle East, and the challenges facing the global economy.
