Switzerland: Thousands gather in Geneva for BLM protest on June 9

Event

Some 5,000 protesters gathered in Geneva on Tuesday, June 9, in support of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. Protesters marched along the Mont Blanc bridge to the other side of the city along Lake Geneva, chanting slogans and stopping to take the knee in a sign of solidarity with US protesters. Although large, the demonstration passed peacefully.

Associated protests are likely to take place in the near term in both Geneva and other urban centers across Switzerland.

Context

George Floyd died while being arrested by Minneapolis police officers on May 25. The four arresting police officers were subsequently fired, and one has since been charged with murder. Black Lives Matter (BLM) supporters gathered on May 26 to denounce the death and actions of the police officers. Clashes ensued between protesters and riot police; with demonstrators throwing bricks and projectiles at police and police property, and police responding with tear gas and rubber bullets as they attempted to disperse the crowds. Protests have since spread to a number of cities across the US and internationally.

Advice

Individuals in Geneva are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.