The streets of Bern were a constant stage for public expression in 2025, with the city's Gewerbepolizei (Commercial Police) recording a total of 339 demonstrations. This figure, averaging nearly one protest per day, confirms a sustained trend of heightened civic activity that has become a defining feature of the federal capital in recent years.
While the overall number of demonstrations remained consistent with previous years, 2025 was marked by several large-scale gatherings and a notable increase in violent confrontations. The data reflects a city navigating the complexities of free expression against a backdrop of rising tensions.
Key Takeaways
- Bern recorded 339 official demonstrations in 2025, a figure consistent with the high levels seen since 2019.
- Major events included the Women's Strike in June and a large pro-Palestine demonstration, each drawing over 10,000 participants.
- The year was characterized by an increase in violent incidents, particularly at pro-Palestine rallies in May and October.
- Despite recent events, cantonal police note that long-term trends show a general decrease in protest-related violence over the years.
A Sustained Era of Public Demonstration
The final tally of 339 protests in 2025 is just slightly below the 341 recorded in 2024, indicating a stable, yet intense, level of public assembly. According to Norbert Esseiva, head of the Local and Commercial Police, this high frequency is a relatively new phenomenon for Bern.
A look back at historical data reveals a significant shift. In 2015, the city registered only 235 demonstrations. The number climbed sharply to 360 by 2019 and has not dropped below 300 since, even during the pandemic years which saw temporary restrictions on public gatherings.
The peak year for demonstrations in Bern remains 2022, when an unprecedented 394 separate events were recorded by authorities.
The city's statistics are comprehensive, including not only pre-approved marches but also spontaneous gatherings, small-scale vigils, and unpermitted demonstrations that come to the attention of the police inspectorate. While a detailed breakdown is not provided by the city, this inclusive approach offers a holistic view of Bern's role as a national hub for political and social expression.
Major Mobilisations Shape the Year
Several large-scale events defined the protest landscape of 2025, drawing significant crowds and media attention. These gatherings highlighted some of the most pressing social and geopolitical issues of the time.
The Women's Strike Continues its Momentum
The annual Women's Strike on June 14 was once again one of the year's largest mobilisations. Organisers reported that 35,000 people took to the streets to advocate for gender equality and protest against gender-based violence. Official estimates placed the attendance at over 10,000, confirming its status as a major event in the city's calendar.
International Conflicts Echo in Bern's Streets
Geopolitical tensions were a recurring theme throughout the year. A national pro-Palestine demonstration at the end of June drew at least 10,000 people expressing solidarity with Gaza. This cause remained a consistent driver for numerous smaller protests and vigils across the months.
Other significant, though more peaceful, protests included a demonstration for International Women's Day and a rally against development plans for the Gaswerkareal, a local cultural and industrial site.
As the federal capital, Bern is a natural focal point for national demonstrations. Its central location and status as the seat of government make it an accessible and symbolic venue for groups wishing to have their voices heard on a national stage.
A Year Marked by Increased Violence
While the majority of demonstrations in 2025 proceeded without incident, the year was distinguished by several high-profile clashes that raised public and official concern. The increased willingness for confrontation was a notable departure from the relative calm of recent years.
The most significant incidents were linked to pro-Palestine demonstrations. In May, a rally saw initial outbreaks of violence between protestors and law enforcement. This was followed by a more severe escalation in mid-October, when a demonstration devolved into significant disorder, prompting a large-scale police response.
In its report on the October 11th demonstration, the Bern Cantonal Police acknowledged the recent incidents but offered a broader perspective. The report stated that, over a longer period, violent excesses related to demonstrations have generally trended downwards.
Authorities have indicated that it is too early to determine if the events of 2025 represent a reversal of this long-term trend or are an isolated series of incidents. A final assessment, they say, will only be possible after observing patterns in the coming years.
The Challenge of Balancing Rights and Security
The sustained high number of protests presents an ongoing logistical and security challenge for the city of Bern. Each event requires careful management to ensure public safety, minimise disruption to residents and businesses, and uphold the fundamental right to freedom of assembly.
The events of 2025 have intensified the debate around protest management. Police tactics, such as the rapid kettling of anti-WEF protestors near the main train station, are often scrutinised. Authorities must constantly adapt their strategies to handle a wide spectrum of events, from peaceful vigils to potentially volatile marches.
The statistics from 2025 paint a clear picture: public demonstration is now a near-daily reality in Bern. For residents, police, and city officials, navigating this dynamic environment has become an integral part of life in the Swiss capital, a challenge that shows no sign of diminishing.