Geneva residents have been warned about disturbances to expect in mid-June. They concern visitors to the Swiss city as well.
The chaotic situation is due to the G7 summit to be held from June 15th to June 17th in Evian, France – only 45 km from Geneva.
“Although the summit is taking place in France, the cities of Geneva and Lausanne, as well as the entire Lake Geneva region, are exposed to security risks,” the Federal Council said.
It added that “previous G7 summits have been marred by violent clashes, disruptions, acts of sabotage, and property damage.”
Border controls and closures
As French activists are planning protests and demonstrations in Geneva, about 30 small border crossings from France will be closed between June 10th and 19th.
The only access between Evian and Geneva during this time (as the chart below shows) will be Anières, Moillesulaz, Thônex-Vallard, Bardonnex, Perly, Meyrin, and Ferney-Voltaire border crossings, where checks of passing vehicles will be more thorough and systematic.
Canton of Geneva
Therefore, “significant delays are expected at these borders,” according to Carole-Anne Kast, head of Geneva’s security.
As this measure will cause longer lines and slower traffic at borders, Geneva is setting up a priority system reserved for a very limited category of cross-border workers – essential personnel domiciled in France and crucial to the functioning of critical services in the city and canton.
A special pass will allow for smoother passage at the Bardonnex and Thônex-Vallard border crossings.
Geneva airport
If you are travelling by air during the summit, expect disruptions at the airport as well.
Some parking lots will be closed and security will be reinforced.
And because of heavier traffic at border checkpoints and in the city centre, “it is recommended to plan your journeys in advance and allow extra time to reach the airport,” the management said.
Therefore, “it is recommended to arrive at check-in three hours before the flight departure.”
Public transport
The summit “will impact mobility in Geneva and throughout the cross-border region,” the canton’s public transport company, TPG, announced.
During this time, Geneva’s trams and buses will operate – with some exceptions – on a holiday schedule.
“During this period, the operation of the TPG network will be adjusted according to the security measures implemented and the traffic conditions,” the transport company said. “Some lines may be disrupted or have reduced service, particularly cross-border ones.”
What about Lausanne?
As the Federal Council said, the entire Lake Geneva region, including Lausanne and Vaud, will be impacted by the G7-related disruptions.
“Due to its geographical proximity to the canton of Vaud, this international event will have direct consequences for security, transportation, and daily life,” cantonal authorities said.
Therefore, “police patrols will be deployed in sensitive areas in order to ensure an optimal deterrent effect and rapid intervention if needed.”
Also, as the Evian pier will be closed from midnight on Wednesday, June 10th through Wednesday, June 17th, the CGN N1 ferry to Lausanne will not operate as usual.
All the measures in place in Vaud and Lausanne are outlined here.
