Rules on protests in Geneva to be tightened
Voters in canton Geneva have approved a proposal tightening regulations on public demonstrations amid criticism over a restriction on basic rights.
Official results show nearly 54 per cent of voters came out in favour of the proposal by centre-right groups following riots at a major demonstration against the World Trade Organization in 2009.
Under the new law organisers of unauthorised protests can be held responsible for any material damage.
Geneva is the seat of many international organisations, including the European headquarters of the United Nations.
Centre-left parties on Sunday announced they will appeal against the verdict at the Federal Court. UN experts in the run-up to the vote criticised the decision as a violation of the rights of freedom to peaceful assembly and association.
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