Bernese authorities are defending their police operation during an unauthorized anti-WEF demonstration held last Saturday. The police deployed a large presence, kettling protesters near the train station and conducting numerous checks. This response has drawn sharp criticism from left-wing groups, who describe the police action as a 'show of force' and an overreaction.
Key Takeaways
- Police contained an unauthorized anti-WEF protest in Bern.
- Around 200 individuals were controlled, with 25 taken to the police station.
- Critics argue the police response was excessive and a 'show of force.'
- City officials maintain the right to free expression was upheld, but a city center march was not permitted.
Police Operation at Bern Train Station
On Saturday, the Bern Cantonal Police intervened forcefully at an unauthorized anti-WEF demonstration. Officers surrounded the train station area, containing protesters, some of whom were reportedly prepared for violence. The police used pepper spray and seized various items, including masks, projectiles, weapons, and pyrotechnics.
During the operation, approximately 200 individuals were checked. Of these, 25 people were detained and transported to the police station for further processing. The police presence was notable, with a significant number of officers deployed throughout the city center.
Key Figures from the Protest
- Approximately 200 people were controlled by police.
- 25 individuals were taken to the police station.
- The demonstration was unauthorized by city officials.
- Police seized items like masks, projectiles, and pyrotechnics.
Criticism from Left-Wing Groups
While authorities express satisfaction with the police response, left-wing political groups have voiced strong objections. The Alternative Left (AL) Bern, in a press statement, condemned the police actions. They described the operation as a "show of force" that effectively nullified freedom of movement within the city.
According to the AL Bern, dozens of young people faced harassment and controls, regardless of their intent to participate in the demonstration. They argue that the police's actions contradicted the city's stated commitment to a de-escalation strategy, especially following previous incidents.
"We condemn this show of force by the police, which rendered freedom of movement in the city ineffective," stated the Alternative Left Bern. "Dozens of young people were controlled and harassed, whether they intended to join the demonstration or not."
Background on De-escalation Strategy
Following a pro-Palestine demonstration in October 2025 that led to clashes and property damage, the Bern City Council had repeatedly affirmed its commitment to a de-escalation strategy for managing protests. Critics of Saturday's police operation argue that the heavy-handed approach represents a significant departure from this stated policy.
City Council Defends Police Strategy
Alec von Graffenried, the City of Bern's Security Director, rejected the criticism. He stated that the fundamental right to free expression was indeed guaranteed during the event. Protesters were able to hold a rally and draw attention to their concerns in the middle of the city on Saturday afternoon.
However, von Graffenried emphasized that there is no right to block the Bahnhofplatz, a central hub, for hours. He explained that the City Council made a deliberate decision not to permit a march through the city center. This decision was based on the experiences of the October 11, 2025, demonstration and a risk assessment for the unauthorized gathering.
Von Graffenried reiterated the city's commitment to a de-escalation strategy. He clarified that each demonstration must be assessed individually. This means that while de-escalation remains a guiding principle, the specific circumstances of each event dictate the police response.
City's Stance on Protests
- Freedom of expression was upheld through a permitted rally.
- Blocking the central Bahnhofplatz is not allowed.
- A march through the city center was not permitted due to prior incidents and risk assessment.
- Each protest is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Impact on Public Perception
The strong police presence and tactics have sparked public debate. Some individuals caught in the police cordon expressed surprise and frustration at the scale of the operation. They felt that the police response was disproportionate to the number of demonstrators present.
The incident highlights the ongoing tension between ensuring public order and protecting the right to protest. City officials aim to strike a balance, allowing peaceful assembly while preventing disruptions and potential violence, especially in sensitive urban areas like the train station.
Moving forward, the discussion around proportionality and de-escalation will likely continue. Both critics and authorities will scrutinize future protest management strategies in Bern. The city's approach to unauthorized gatherings remains a key point of public interest and political debate.