Jul 10, 2026, 07:47Jul 10, 2026, 07:47
There were riots in Geneva in the run-up to the G7 summit in Évian, France. Numerous police officers were deployed from various cantons, and 4,000 Swiss army members were also deployed. An expensive matter – which Switzerland will now definitely have to manage itself. Like the Department of Foreign Affairs (EDA) opposite SRF confirmed, France will not contribute to the security costs incurred.
Police officers on an operation in Geneva on June 14th.Image: keystone
The EDA writes that it was not possible to agree on France’s participation. The topic is not yet completely off the table. However, the prospect of France participating is “low”. It is unclear why the negotiations failed.
Switzerland had long hoped that it would not have to bear the security costs itself. Federal President Guy Parmelin had previously said on Radio SRF’s “Samstagsrundschau” that money was being demanded from France. “I know it’s not that easy,” said the Federal Councilor. Nevertheless, it is important to find solutions for costs and security.
Fire during the riots in Geneva.Image: keystone
The riots in Geneva occurred primarily because demonstrations were not allowed in France. The resulting costs in Switzerland are said to be around 30 million francs, as Geneva security director Carole-Anne Kast told the French-speaking Swiss business newspaper “L’Agefi”.
Exactly how these costs will be divided is still unclear. Part of this is likely to be covered by the federal government. Meanwhile, the canton of Geneva continues to hope that France will cover at least part of the costs, despite pessimism regarding the EDA. (dab)