The Bern City Parliament on Thursday strongly condemned the violence that occurred during an unauthorized Palestine demonstration. However, members debated whether the city government and police acted appropriately by initially tolerating the unapproved gathering.
Key Takeaways
- Bern City Parliament unanimously condemned violence at the recent Palestine demonstration.
- Lawmakers debated the police strategy of initially tolerating the unauthorized protest.
- Eighteen police officers were injured, and property damage reached millions of Swiss francs.
- City President Marieke Kruit promised a thorough review of the events.
- Security Director Alec von Graffenried emphasized the police's right to use force when the rule of law is challenged.
Parliamentary Debate on Protest Strategy
The Bern City Council spent approximately 70 minutes discussing the escalated Palestine demonstration. The debate focused on the tactics used by city authorities and law enforcement. Members from various political parties voiced differing opinions on the events.
The SVP party stated that the strategy failed. They suggested that future demonstrations in the city center should be prohibited, allowing them only in designated areas like outside the Reitschule. This proposal aims to prevent similar incidents from recurring.
Protest Impact Statistics
- Duration of debate: Approximately 70 minutes
- Injured police officers: 18
- Estimated property damage: Millions of Swiss francs
- Reported injured demonstrators/passersby: Several hundred (according to pro-Palestinian groups)
The Mitte party called for unauthorized demonstrations to be stopped as early as possible. They believe proactive measures are necessary to maintain public order and safety. The FDP party highlighted that the violent rhetoric in the protest's initial call had set a negative tone from the beginning.
Injuries and Damages Reported
The unauthorized protest, which took place last Saturday, resulted in significant consequences. Eighteen police officers sustained injuries during the events. Pro-Palestinian groups also reported that several hundred demonstrators and passersby were injured. The financial cost of property damage is estimated to be in the millions of Swiss francs, impacting public and private infrastructure.
Background on Unauthorized Protests
Unauthorized demonstrations pose a challenge for city authorities. Balancing freedom of expression with public safety and order requires careful consideration. Police strategies often involve assessing potential risks and responding to evolving situations on the ground. The decision to tolerate or disperse an unapproved gathering is complex.
The left-wing parties in the council also expressed shock at the violence. However, they questioned whether the police response was proportionate. The SP, the largest party, demanded that reports regarding the use of rubber bullets at eye level be taken seriously. They emphasized the need for accountability and a thorough review of police actions.
Official Response and Future Steps
City President Marieke Kruit (SP) promised that the municipal council would carefully review the events. She thanked the police for their work under difficult circumstances. Kruit condemned the rioters, stating that while demonstrating against Israel's actions in Gaza is legitimate,
"we do not accept this violence."
Security Director Alec von Graffenried (Green Free List) concluded the debate by addressing police actions. He clarified that police must use force when the rule of law is attacked. This statement underscores the city's commitment to upholding legal order and protecting its citizens.
Review and Accountability
The city's commitment to a thorough review includes examining police procedures and the overall management of the protest. This process aims to identify lessons learned and implement improvements for future events. The goal is to ensure both public safety and the right to peaceful assembly.
The debate in the Bern City Parliament reflects ongoing discussions across many cities regarding protest management. Striking a balance between fundamental rights and public order remains a critical task for local governments and law enforcement agencies.
Political Parties' Stances
- SVP: Called for an end to city center demonstrations, restricting them to specific areas.
- Mitte: Advocated for stifling unauthorized protests early.
- FDP: Pointed to the violent nature of the protest's initial call.
- SP (Left-wing): Condemned violence but questioned police proportionality, demanding review of rubber bullet use.