'Within the coalition, no one defends a social democratic model': what demands lie behind No-G7?

As the G7 leaders prepare to convene, a coalition known as No-G7 is organizing a counter-summit in Geneva, aiming to challenge the established global economic and political order. Aude Martenot, a member of Solidarité Tattes, and Vincent Bircher, president of the Geneva section of the Public Services Union, are among the key figures preparing for the event.

They argue that the G7's stated goals, which include support for Ukraine, discussions on a Gaza ceasefire, AI cooperation, food security, and climate resilience, do not align with a social democratic model. "Within the coalition, no one defends a social democratic model," Martenot stated, implying a fundamental disconnect between the G7's priorities and the coalition's vision for a more equitable world.

Martenot, 39, comes from a social science background and works in the non-profit sector, while Bircher, 44, is a social worker. Their involvement highlights the coalition's focus on social justice and public services. They have been preparing for months for the counter-summit, which is reportedly causing concern among economic actors and authorities in Geneva.

The activists draw inspiration from past movements, recalling the sentiment of "Another world is possible" from protests in 2003. They believe such a world is not only possible but more necessary than ever. The No-G7 coalition intends to use the counter-summit to detail their political positions and advocate for alternative solutions to global challenges, contrasting sharply with the G7's agenda.

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Within the coalition, no one defends a social democratic model.