Geneva Prepares Special Security Measures Ahead of G7 Summit in Evian
Authorities in Switzerland are preparing extensive security measures ahead of the upcoming G7 Summit scheduled to take place in Evian, France, near the Swiss border.
The Geneva Public Prosecutor’s Office has announced a large-scale operational plan to handle potential incidents during the summit, which will run from June 15 to June 17 on the French side of Lake Geneva.
Geneva public prosecutor Olivier Jornot said authorities are preparing for the “most dangerous scenario,” including possible mass arrests linked to protests or security incidents.
To manage the expected pressure, the prosecutor’s office plans to double or even triple its usual staffing levels during the summit period. Up to six prosecutors per day will reportedly be placed on standby to handle urgent legal procedures.
Officials also confirmed that routine hearings involving detainees will be significantly reduced during the summit in order to prioritize emergency response and security-related cases.
Security planning has identified two main risk areas. The first involves potential threats against heads of state and delegations, which falls under federal-level Swiss security responsibility. The second concerns civil disturbances, including protests, vandalism, and property damage, which will be handled by Geneva authorities.
In response to these risks, Geneva will also tighten border controls during the summit period. Between June 12 and June 18, only seven of the canton’s 35 border crossings will remain open to regulate movement and strengthen security monitoring.
Authorities have cited lessons learned from the 2003 G8 summit in Evian, when protests led to significant damage on the Swiss side of the border.
The coordinated Swiss-French security strategy highlights the importance of cross-border cooperation during major international political events held in the Lake Geneva region.
