‘The Hatred in Protesters’ Eyes Was Hardest to Bear’: A Geneva Police Officer Recounts G7 Duty

A Swiss police officer, identified as Corporal Antoine D., shared his experience during the high-risk G7 summit held in Geneva. He described the event as "monumental" due to the extensive security deployment, which involved thousands of police officers and effectively placed the city under siege. Antoine D., a 36-year-old member of the cantonal police's public security brigade, is accustomed to public order maintenance. However, he found the G7 operation particularly challenging, especially when confronting protesters. He spoke of facing hostility, insults, and projectiles such as stones and smoke bombs. The officer's testimony offers a rare glimpse into the pressures faced by law enforcement during such major international events, highlighting the emotional toll of dealing with intense public anger and aggression. His account contrasts with the often-overlooked experiences of the officers on the ground amidst the broader political discourse and controversies surrounding the summit.

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It was quite monumental.