Businesses in Évian-les-Bains, France, are bracing for potential unrest ahead of the G7 summit scheduled for June 15-17, 2026. Concerns stem from violent protests that marred a previous G8 summit held in the same city in 2003, resulting in millions of francs in damages. The upcoming summit is prompting calls for increased security measures and restrictions on demonstrations.
Businesses Seek Preventative Measures
Local business leaders have written to regional officials requesting “preventative and proportionate” measures to avoid a repeat of the 2003 disturbances. Specifically, they are advocating for a ban on political demonstrations between June 10 and June 21. They also want the government to provide protective barriers for storefronts and establish a compensation mechanism for any damages incurred. This request underscores the economic vulnerability of businesses in the face of potential disruptions.
“Not the Right Time to Express Oneself”
Representatives from business groups expressed frustration with what they described as a lack of communication and firmness from local authorities. “There is a problem of courage from the Council of State,” said Arnaud Bürgin, director general of the Federation of Romand Enterprises. “Not prohibiting political demonstrations is nonsense, given that we have the necessary hindsight.” Xavier Rey, vice president of the Geneva Hotel Association, echoed those concerns, stating, “We cannot afford to be lax for this event. Everyone can express themselves, but now is not the time.”
Retailers Request Barricades
Bürgin also called for the government to provide, at its expense, a stock of barricades for shop windows, as businesses seek guidance on protecting their properties. “I receive calls every day from restaurateurs who are worried: how do I protect my employees? Should I dismantle my terrace?” said Flore Teysseire, secretary general of Geneva Commerce and the Professional Association of Restaurateurs, and Hoteliers. She pointed out that both stores and cafes are “much more fragile than in 2003, due to online commerce, construction work and empty arcades. They do not want to relive 2003 again, especially since insurance does not cover damage from riots.”
The transportation sector also expressed concerns about potential disruptions to business and customer supplies. “We inquire the Council of State to limit traffic obstructions as much as possible,” said Andrea Genecand, president of ASTAG Geneva, specifically mentioning Lise-Girardin Square (formerly Place des XXII-Cantons) near the train station. “If this intersection is paralyzed, all of the Right Bank will be.” He also targeted the Mont-Blanc and Coulouvrenière bridges, “vital routes” between the two banks, advocating for protests to be prohibited on these transit points.
“June is Tomorrow”
Business leaders are hoping for a swift response from the Council of State, as Xavier Rey noted, “June is tomorrow.” He observed that the Geneva International crisis earlier this year resulted in a 5% loss of customers for the hospitality industry, and 8% for the Middle East market, “and that’s just the beginning.” The G7 summit adds another layer of uncertainty. “What do we advise customers? Geneva is not just a city, it’s a brand, and a brand must be protected.” He argued against complacency, noting that cities like Paris, London, Berlin, and Madrid would welcome a “degraded situation” for their competitor. “Let’s take the necessary measures.”
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Jérôme Faas (jef), head of the Geneva section, has been a journalist at 20 minutes since 2012. He covers judicial, crime, economic, and political news.
