Geneva, Switzerland: 20,000 people demonstrate against G7 imperialism

In anticipation of the June 15-17 summit of the seven wealthiest and most powerful imperialist countries — known as the G7 — some 20,000 people demonstrated June 14 in Geneva, Switzerland. The leaders of the seven biggest plunderers of the world’s wealth, all of which workers and farmers produce, were set to meet nearby in the French spa town of Evian.

Demonstrators marched under a brilliant sun. They waved Palestinian flags and banners calling for an end to the disruption of the world’s climate — opposing two threats to peace and stability that none of the imperialist leaders is doing anything about. Placards read, “No to the G7 and all imperialist alliances” and “Abort the G7.” (Al Jazeera, June 14)

The demonstration was organized by 60 unions, associations and left-wing organizations who declared they were “against fascism and imperialism.” They had come to the right place, as the top political authorities of Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the U.S. were to meet starting the next day.

U.S. leaders complained to the Europeans that they hadn’t provided enough aid and support for the U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran — that is, for not participating in war crimes. The Europeans, while reluctant to join a costly losing battle in Iran, were themselves mobilizing their militaries to confront Russia.