• Up to 20,000 people protested in Geneva ahead of the G7 summit in France.
• Clashes erupted between police and protesters, with incidents of violence reported.
• Demonstrators rallied against issues like imperialism, climate change, and women's rights.
• Significant security measures were deployed, including tear gas and water cannons.
• Activists express frustration particularly with US policies under President Trump.

On Sunday, June 14, an estimated 20,000 protesters gathered in Geneva ahead of the G7 summit scheduled in neighboring France, expressing discontent over various global issues. The protest involved a coalition of groups advocating for environmental rights, feminism, and anti-imperialist sentiments, as anti-G7 slogans filled the air. Many protesters carried banners decrying the summit and chanting slogans against what they termed "imperialist alliances," amid heavy police presence as authorities anticipated potential violence reminiscent of past events. Police reported a significant turnout, estimating the march size at around 15,000 to 20,000 people, while others claimed nearly 7,000 participants at the march start.

The protest quickly escalated into clashes, particularly as a group of protesters, some identified as part of the "Black Bloc," engaged in violent acts, which included setting a Tesla vehicle ablaze and vandalizing local businesses. Riot police responded by deploying tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd, which had begun throwing rocks and other projectiles. Notably, a bank in the vicinity saw its windows smashed as tensions rose. Despite these clashes, the majority of those marching were peaceful, aiming to shed light on critical social issues and express their opposition to the G7 summit.

The G7 summit, which includes leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the US, is set against a backdrop of ongoing international tensions, including discussions related to the conflicts in the Middle East and global economic disparities. Concerns were particularly amplified about US President Donald Trump's policies, with activists expressing fear that his leadership exacerbates inequalities and global instability. Many demonstrators carried placards accusing Trump of furthering detrimental policies impacting climate change and geopolitical relations.

As authorities prepared for the summit, security was ramped up significantly, with France deploying over 13,000 police and gendarmerie officers to maintain order. This was coupled with strict roadblocks and the boarding up of local businesses, reflecting the lasting impact of previous G7 events marred by violence. Social media footage revealed an array of protest activities, those as varied as a flotilla of boats displaying anti-G7 and pro-Palestinian messages on Lake Geneva leading up to the protest.